Animal containment unit for vehicle

Abstract

A unit for enclosing an animal on a seat of a vehicle includes a base structure including a base. The unit also includes a frame structure having a front member coupled to the front portion of the base, a rear member coupled to the rear portion of the base, and a containment material extending at least partially around the frame structure. The webbing structure includes at least a first span and a second span of webbing. Each of the span segments has a first end coupled to a first anchor point at the base structure and extends around an exterior of the frame structure and around the front component. The second end of each of the span segments is configured to couple to a rigid connection on or near the seat of the vehicle such that the webbing extends around the frame structure along a desired path to constrain a pet enclosed within the unit.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. application No. 63 / 476,842, filed December 22, 2022, U.S. application No. 63 / 502,812, filed May 17, 2023, U.S. application No. 63 / 512,037, filed July 5, 2023, and U.S. application No. 63 / 512,671, filed July 10, 2023, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a containment unit or carrier for animals for installation in a vehicle. Background Art

[0004] Cages or other types of carriers can be used to transport animals in vehicles. However, many existing carriers have various drawbacks. For example, some carriers are not sturdy enough to contain and protect the animal in the event of a vehicle crash, especially for larger animals. In another example, some carriers are difficult to transport, ship, or store outside of a vehicle. In yet another example, some carriers are difficult to install in a vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one embodiment, a unit for restraining an animal on a seat in a vehicle includes: a base structure including a base including a front portion and a rear portion; a frame structure including a front member coupled to the front portion of the base; a rear member coupled to the rear portion of the base; and a containment material extending at least partially around the frame structure. The unit also includes a webbing structure including at least a first span and a second span of webbing, each of the spans including a first end coupled to a respective first anchor point defined by the base structure, the spans extending from the respective first anchor point around the exterior of the frame structure and around the front member to a respective second end of the span, the second end of each of the spans being configured to be coupled to a rigid connector on or near the seat of the vehicle so that the webbing extends along a desired path around the frame structure and is configured to restrain a pet restrained within the unit.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the front component includes a first end connected to the front portion of the base on a first side and a second end connected to the front portion of the base on a second side, the front component of the frame structure is shaped into a curve to partially define the front of the unit and partially define the top of the unit, and the rear component includes a first end connected to the rear portion of the base on a first side and a second end connected to the rear portion of the base on a second side, the rear component of the frame structure is shaped into a curve to partially define the rear of the unit and partially define the top of the unit, wherein the span extends along the top portion of the enclosure material covering the top of the unit to the second end connected to the second anchor point.

[0007] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the base structure further includes a base frame mounted to the base, and wherein the base frame includes a front member, and the first end of the span of the webbing is connected to the front member of the base frame within the base.

[0008] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the first ends of the spans of webbing are sewn to the front member of the base frame.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments, the enclosure material includes a front enclosure material that partially defines the front of the unit and is at least partially supported by the front member of the frame structure, the front portion of the enclosure material covering the front of the unit, the front portion of the enclosure material including an outer surface and an inner surface, and the unit further including a top portion of the enclosure material covering the top of the unit and being at least partially supported by the front and rear members of the frame structure.

[0010] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, a span of the webbing is woven through at least a portion of the front containment material such that a portion of the span is outside the outer surface of the front containment material and another portion of the span is inside the outer surface of the front containment material.

[0011] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the enclosure material comprises at least two layers, and the span of webbing is woven through a first of the layers and not woven through a second of the layers.

[0012] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the span wraps around an outer surface of the front member of the base frame.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the frame structure further includes a first intermediate component and a second intermediate component, each having a first end connected to the front component and a second end connected to the rear component, the first intermediate component and the second intermediate component are outside the outer surface of the enclosure material, and wherein the first span of the webbing extends along the first intermediate component across the outer surface of the enclosure material, and the second span of the webbing extends along the second intermediate component across the outer surface of the enclosure material.

[0014] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the first and second intermediate components of the frame structure each include a loop structure through which the spans of webbing extend.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in another embodiment, the first middle component and the second middle component of the frame structure each include a front middle component and a rear middle component that are removable via a sliding actuator, wherein the sliding actuator is translatable between a first position and a second position, in which the sliding actuator slides over the front middle component and is removed from the rear middle component, and in which the sliding actuator slides over the rear middle component and attaches the front middle component and the rear middle component, and wherein, when the sliding actuator translates, the ring structure of the sliding actuator slides over the span of the webbing.

[0016] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in another embodiment, a tie-down structure is included, the tie-down structure comprising at least two spans, each of the spans of the tie-down structure having a first end coupled to a rear component, the second ends of the spans being joined together at a joint, the tie-down structure further comprising an integral span extending from the first end at the joint to a second end at which a tie-down latch is adjustably positioned, wherein the tie-down latch is configured to attach to a rigid connector on or near a seat of the vehicle.

[0017] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the first end of the span of the tie-down structure is adjacent to the second end of the span of the webbing.

[0018] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the first ends of the spans of the tie-down structure are sewn around the rear component.

[0019] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the first end of the span of webbing is coupled to a rigid bracket at the rear portion of the base.

[0020] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the span extends from the first end within the base structure, surrounds the front portion of the base structure, and continues outside the outer surface of the front portion of the enclosure material covering the front of the unit.

[0021] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in another embodiment, the rigid connector on or near the seat of the vehicle is a first rigid connector, and the unit further includes a latch coupled to the frame structure, the latch being configured to couple the frame structure to a second rigid connector on or near the seat of the vehicle.

[0022] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the second rigid connector is spaced apart from the first rigid connector.

[0023] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the second ends of the first span and the second span of the webbing are configured to couple directly to a rigid connector on or near a seat of the vehicle.

[0024] According to one embodiment, a unit for enclosing an animal on a seat in a vehicle includes a base structure including a base including a front portion and a rear portion, and a frame structure transitioning between a deployed state and a telescoping state. The frame structure includes: a front member having a first end and a second end, the first and second ends of the front member being rotatably coupled to the front portion of the base, the front member being shaped to partially define the front of the unit and partially define the top of the unit when the frame structure is in the deployed state; a rear member having a first end and a second end, the first and second ends of the rear member being rotatably coupled to the rear portion of the base, the rear member being shaped to partially define the rear of the unit and partially define the top of the unit when the frame structure is in the deployed state; at least one intermediate member including a first end rotatably coupled to the front member or the rear member via a rotational joint, and a second end, the second end being attached to a corresponding portion of the frame structure when the frame structure is in the deployed state, such that a connection is formed between the front member and the rear member via the at least one intermediate member, and when the frame structure is to be transformed into the telescoping state, the front member and the rear member are rotated to a telescoping position in which the at least one intermediate member is within or substantially flush with the front member or the rear member.

[0025] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the second end of the at least one intermediate member is detached from a corresponding portion of the frame structure when the frame structure is to be transitioned to the telescoping state.

[0026] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in a further embodiment, the at least one intermediate component includes two intermediate components, each having a front intermediate component and a rear intermediate component that are detachable via a sliding actuator, wherein the sliding actuator is translatable between a first position and a second position, in which the sliding actuator slides over the front intermediate component and is detached from the rear intermediate component, and in which the sliding actuator slides over the rear intermediate component and attaches the front intermediate component to the rear intermediate component.

[0027] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in a further embodiment, the sliding actuator includes a first opening and a second opening for receiving a button extending away from the exterior of the front middle component, wherein, in the first position, the button is received in the first opening and in the second position, the button is received in the second opening.

[0028] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments, there is included: a first front rotary actuator that is rotatably connected to the front portion of the base on a first side; a second front rotary actuator that is rotatably connected to the front portion of the base on a second side; a first rear rotary actuator that is rotatably connected to the rear portion of the base on a first side; and a second rear rotary actuator that is rotatably connected to the rear portion of the base on a second side.

[0029] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, after the at least one intermediate component is brought into the telescoping position, the first front rotary actuator and the second front rotary actuator are rotated to a stowed position in which the front component is within or flush with the base structure or the rear component, and the first rear rotary actuator and the second rear rotary actuator are rotated to cause the rear component to be within or flush with the base structure or the front component.

[0030] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the first rear rotary actuator and the second rear rotary actuator are positioned higher relative to the base than the first front rotary actuator and the second front rotary actuator such that when the frame structure is in the telescoping state, the rear component is flush on top of the front component.

[0031] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments, the first front rotary actuator and the second front rotary actuator are lockable in a first position and a second position, wherein the first position comprises a front portion of the frame structure extending perpendicular to the base and the second position comprises a front portion extending parallel to the base, and wherein the first rear rotary actuator and the second rear rotary actuator are lockable in a first position and a second position, wherein the first position comprises a rear portion of the frame structure extending perpendicular to the base and the second position comprises a rear portion extending parallel to the base.

[0032] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the at least one intermediate component can be detachable from the front component or the rear component while remaining attached to the other of the front component or the rear component, such that the at least one intermediate component can rotate with the rotational joint.

[0033] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the at least one intermediate component is detachable from the front component or the rear component via a release actuator mounted to the at least one intermediate component.

[0034] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the release actuator withdraws at least one pin extending away from the at least one intermediate component from a corresponding notch in the front or rear component.

[0035] According to one embodiment, a unit for enclosing an animal on a seat in a vehicle includes: a base structure comprising a base and a base frame, the base comprising a front portion and a rear portion, and the base frame comprising a front member mounted to the front portion of the base and a rear member mounted to the rear portion of the base; and a latch bracket slidably coupled to the front and rear members of the base frame so that the latch bracket can translate within the base in a direction parallel to the front and rear members from a first position on a first side of the unit to a second position on a second side of the unit, the latch bracket including a latch configured to rigidly couple to an anchor point for the unit to reach within the vehicle.

[0036] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the latch bracket is slidably coupled to the front portion of the base frame via a front guide extending from the front portion of the latch bracket coupled to the front portion of the base frame, and the latch bracket is slidably coupled to the rear portion of the base frame via a rear guide extending from the rear portion of the latch bracket coupled to the rear portion of the base frame.

[0037] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the latch bracket is translatable relative to the base in a direction parallel to the front and rear components.

[0038] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the base includes a front portion and a rear portion, the front component is disposed at the front portion, and the rear component is disposed at the rear portion, and the unit includes: a first side actuator coupled to the base structure and accessible from the exterior of the unit to lock the latch bracket in a first position such that the latch extends out of the rear portion of the base on a first side; and a second side actuator coupled to the base structure and accessible from the exterior of the unit to lock the latch bracket in a second position such that the latch extends out of the rear portion of the base on a second side. The latch bracket can be released from the first side actuator or the second side actuator by pulling the first side actuator or the second side actuator relative to the base structure.

[0039] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the first side actuator and the second side actuator include features for receiving corresponding shaped features of the latch bracket to lock the latch bracket.

[0040] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the latch is transitionable to an extended position extending out of the rear portion of the base frame or a retracted position retracted into the rear portion of the base frame.

[0041] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the latch is telescopic.

[0042] According to one embodiment, a unit for securing an animal on a seat in a vehicle includes a base structure comprising a base including a rear cutout portion, and a latch system mounted in the rear cutout portion of the base and accessible from a bottom of the unit, the latch system including a bar extending across the rear cutout portion and secured to the base, the latch system further including a plurality of latches slidably and rotatably coupled to the bar to rigidly couple the unit to an anchor point within the vehicle, wherein the latches are coupled to each other such that a desired distance between the latches is maintained, the latch system further including a bracket around the bar to prevent the latches from sliding when adjacent to the bracket. The latches are positionable along the bar in a first position on a first side of the unit or in a second position along the bar on a second side of the unit.

[0043] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the latch can be transitioned from a retracted position, in which the latch is withdrawn into the base, to an extended position, in which the latch pivots around the rod and extends out from the base.

[0044] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, a latch release actuator is included, which is connected to the protrusion and is configured to translate the protrusion, wherein at least one latch includes a slot for receiving the protrusion, and the latch release actuator is configured such that when the latch release actuator is actuated, the protrusion translates, causing the latch to be released from the anchor point to which the latch is attached.

[0045] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the bracket prevents the latch from sliding along the rod when the latch is in the extended position, and the bracket does not prevent the latch from sliding along the rod when the latch is in the retracted position.

[0046] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the latch may be locked in a retracted position in the base.

[0047] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, a latch unlocking actuator is included in the base structure, the latch unlocking actuator being connected to the protrusion and configured to translate the protrusion, wherein the first of the latches includes a slot for receiving the protrusion, the latch unlocking actuator being configured such that when the latch unlocking actuator is actuated, the protrusion translates, causing the first latch to be released from the retracted position and freely transition to the extended position.

[0048] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the latch may be locked in an extended position in the base.

[0049] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, a latch unlock actuator is included in the base structure, the latch unlock actuator being connected to the pin and configured to translate the pin, wherein a first of the latches includes a hole for receiving the pin, the latch unlock actuator being configured such that when the latch unlock actuator is actuated, the protrusion translates, causing the first latch to be released from the extended position and freely transition to the retracted position.

[0050] According to one embodiment, a unit for enclosing an animal on a seat in a vehicle includes: a base structure including a base and a base frame, the base including a front portion and a rear portion, and the base frame including a front member mounted to the front portion of the base and a rear member mounted to the rear portion of the base; a latch system connected to the front and rear members of the base frame, the latch system including a plurality of latches configured to releasably couple the unit to anchor points within the vehicle, the latches mounted to respective intermediate members that are slidably coupled to respective side members of the latch system so that the latches are transitionable between an extended position and a retracted position, in which the latches extend out of the rear portion and in which the latches are retracted into the rear portion; and an actuator connected to the latch system and accessible from the outside of the unit to lock the intermediate member relative to the side members so that the latches are locked in the extended position or the retracted position, the actuator being operable to unlock the intermediate member relative to the side members so that the latches are transitionable between the extended position and the retracted position.

[0051] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the actuator is mounted to the front component via the front portion of the base.

[0052] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the latch system is translatable within the base in a direction parallel to the front portion of the base frame, wherein a slot is formed in the front portion of the base so that the actuator can translate along with the latch system.

[0053] According to one embodiment, a unit for securing an animal on a vehicle seat includes a base structure comprising a base including a rear portion; and a latch system mounted in the rear portion of the base, the latch system comprising a bar secured to the base, the latch system further comprising a latch rotatably coupled to the bar to rigidly couple the unit to an anchor point within the vehicle. The latches are coupled to each other such that a distance between the latches is maintained. The latches can be rotated about the bar to transition from an extended position outside the base to a retracted position inside the base.

[0054] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the latch system further includes a bracket around the bar to prevent the latch from sliding when the latch is adjacent the bracket.

[0055] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the latch may be locked in the retracted position in the base via a lock accessible on the bottom of the base.

[0056] According to one embodiment, a unit for securing an animal on a seat in a vehicle includes a base including a front portion and an opposing rear portion, and a latch system coupled to the base. The latch system includes a plurality of latches configured to releasably couple the unit to an anchor point within the vehicle, the latches being movable to the base so that the latches can transition between an extended position, in which the latches extend out of the rear portion, and a retracted position, in which the latches are retracted into the rear portion, and an actuator coupled to the base and accessible from an exterior of the unit, the actuator being configured to release the latches from the anchor point within the vehicle.

[0057] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the actuator is configured to release each of the plurality of latches simultaneously.

[0058] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments, the latch system includes a latch bracket to which the plurality of latches are connected, wherein the latch bracket is translatable within the base in a direction parallel to the front and rear portions of the base from a first position on a first side of the unit to a second position on a second side of the unit, and wherein the actuator is configured to release the latches when the latch bracket is in either the first position and the second position.

[0059] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the unit comprises a body panel defining an inflated shape of the exterior of the unit.

[0060] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the latch system includes an auxiliary latch release mechanism comprising an actuator having an attachment / release indicator on the rigid latch, and an indicator window on the rigid latch.

[0061] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the unit comprises a lead-in for securing the latch in a connected position for connecting the unit to a support structure of the vehicle.

[0062] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the introducer includes an angled surface such that as the latch is rotated to the connected position, contact between the latch and the angled surface causes the introducer to translate toward the unlocked position.

[0063] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the introducer translates toward the locked position when the latch is in the connected position.

[0064] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the introducer is biased toward the locked position.

[0065] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the unit comprises a position release actuator for transitioning the introducer from the locked position to the unlocked position to rotate the latch away from the connected position.

[0066] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the rigid latch is angled relative to the base to level the unit on the seat of the vehicle.

[0067] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the frame structure of the unit includes an X-shaped bar, and the X-shaped bar has a release actuator attached to the front part or the rear part, the release actuator including a pin that can be slidably received in a corresponding hole on the end of the part of the X-shaped bar to lock the X-shaped bar relative to the front part or the rear part.

[0068] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the unit comprises a fold lock for attaching the base to the enclosure material when the unit is in the telescoping state.

[0069] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the fold lock comprises a protrusion that connects with a corresponding notch or recess on the base.

[0070] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the fold lock comprises a recess that connects with a corresponding protrusion on the base.

[0071] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the unit comprises a handle.

[0072] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the handle extends through the first opening and the second opening defined by the base and into the interior of the base.

[0073] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the end of the handle within the base connects with a corresponding boss on the interior of the base to secure the handle to the base.

[0074] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the unit includes feet on the base to enable the unit to stand upright.

[0075] In addition to or alternatively to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the enclosure material can be removed from the unit by disconnecting the top portion of the base from the bottom portion, disconnecting the enclosure material from the top portion and the frame structure, and sliding the enclosure material away from the frame structure.

[0076] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the unit includes a tie-down link comprising a first connector connected to an end of a first tie portion that is slidably connected to a second tie portion and a second connector.

[0077] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, a slidable connection between the first tie portion and the second tie portion allows the first tie portion to move to a position relative to the second tie portion to maintain a taut connection between the first tie portion and the tie.

[0078] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the tie down disconnect may remain in the vehicle when the unit is removed from the vehicle.

[0079] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the unit includes a tie-down guide connected to the frame structure for receiving the tie-down to align the tie-down on the unit.

[0080] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the unit includes a stepped feature on the base to trim the enclosure material to form the first and second sides of the unit.

[0081] According to one embodiment, a unit for enclosing an animal on a vehicle seat includes a base structure, a frame structure coupled to the base, and a containment material extending at least partially around the frame structure. The base structure, frame structure, and containment material cooperate to define an enclosure area of the unit. An opening is formed in the containment material to provide access to the enclosure area. An impact-absorbing pad can be removably mounted to the unit near the opening.

[0082] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, an impact-absorbing pad may be removably connected to a door, the impact-absorbing pad being movable with the door relative to the opening.

[0083] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the door is integrally formed with the enclosure material.

[0084] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, an impact-absorbing pad may be removably attached to the enclosure material proximate the opening.

[0085] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, further embodiments include a door that is movable relative to the surrounding material to selectively seal the opening.

[0086] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the door is movable relative to the impact-absorbing pad.

[0087] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the impact absorbing pad is formed from a foam material.

[0088] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the impact absorbing pad may be removably mounted to the single-cell hook and loop fastener.

[0089] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the impact absorbing pad may be removably mounted to the unit via magnets.

[0090] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the impact absorbing pad may be removably mounted to the unit via a buckle.

[0091] According to one embodiment, a unit for enclosing an animal on a vehicle seat includes a base structure, a frame structure coupled to the base, and a containment material extending at least partially around the frame structure. The base structure, frame structure, and containment material cooperate to define an enclosure area of the unit. An opening is formed in the containment material to provide access to the enclosure area. A safety net can be removably mounted to the unit in an arrangement overlapping the opening.

[0092] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the safety net comprises lengths of webbing arranged to block the opening.

[0093] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments the safety net may be removably connected to the unit via at least one quick disconnect mechanism.

[0094] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the at least one quick connection mechanism comprises a connector attached to the unit and a buckle arranged at an end of the safety net.

[0095] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the connector is rigidly attached to the frame structure.

[0096] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in further embodiments, the connector is rigidly attached to the base structure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0097] Figure 1a A perspective view is shown of an animal containment unit according to a first exemplary embodiment.

[0098] Figure 1b A front view of an animal containment unit is shown according to a first exemplary embodiment.

[0099] Figure 1c A side view of an animal containment unit is shown according to a first exemplary embodiment.

[0100] Figure 1d A top view of an animal containment unit is shown according to a first exemplary embodiment.

[0101] Figure 2a A base structure of a first exemplary embodiment of an animal containment unit is shown.

[0102] Figure 2b A base frame and latch bracket of a base structure of an animal containment unit of a first exemplary embodiment are shown.

[0103] Figure 2c A side view of a base structure of an animal containment unit is shown in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment.

[0104] Figure 3a The base structure of the first exemplary embodiment is shown with the latch bracket in a first position facing a first side of the animal containment unit.

[0105] Figure 3b A front button of the substrate structure of the first exemplary embodiment is shown extending through the front cavity in the front portion of the molded substrate.

[0106] Figure 3c The base structure of the first exemplary embodiment is shown with the latch bracket in a first position and with the latch extending out of the rear cavity.

[0107] Figure 3dA first side actuator of the base structure of the first exemplary embodiment is shown positioned in a first side cavity in a first side portion of a molded base.

[0108] Figure 3e The front button of the base structure of the first exemplary embodiment is shown sliding within the front slot.

[0109] Figure 3f The base structure of the first exemplary embodiment is shown with the latch bracket in a second position toward the second side of the unit.

[0110] Figure 3g The base structure of the first exemplary embodiment is shown with the latch bracket in the second position and with the latch retracted into the rear cavity.

[0111] Figure 4a The animal containment unit of the first exemplary embodiment is shown in a deployed state.

[0112] Figure 4b The animal containment unit of the first exemplary embodiment is shown transitioning to a telescoping state.

[0113] Figure 4c The animal enclosure unit of the first exemplary embodiment is shown in a telescoping state.

[0114] Figure 5a A perspective view showing the slide actuator of the first exemplary embodiment in a first state, wherein the front and rear middle support members are connected via the slide actuator.

[0115] Figure 5b A side view of the slide actuator of the first exemplary embodiment is shown in a first state.

[0116] Figure 5c A side view of the slide actuator of the first exemplary embodiment is shown in a second condition, wherein the front intermediate support member and the slide actuator are disconnected from the rear intermediate support member.

[0117] Figure 6a A cross-sectional view showing a first exemplary embodiment of the enclosure material.

[0118] Figure 6b The outer layer of the containment material of the first exemplary embodiment is shown with the animal containment unit in an expanded state.

[0119] Figure 6c The reinforcement layer of the containment material of the first exemplary embodiment is shown with the animal containment unit in an expanded state.

[0120] Figure 6d The inner layer of the containment material of the first exemplary embodiment is shown with the animal containment unit in an expanded state.

[0121] Figure 7 The webbing and tie-down structure of the animal containment unit of the first exemplary embodiment is shown assembled with the frame structure and base structure.

[0122] Figure 8 A diagram showing a first exemplary embodiment of an animal containment unit mounted in a vehicle.

[0123] Figure 9a A perspective view is shown of an animal containment unit according to a second exemplary embodiment.

[0124] Figure 9b An exploded view of an animal containment unit is shown according to a second exemplary embodiment.

[0125] Figure 9c A top view of an animal containment unit is shown according to a second exemplary embodiment.

[0126] Figure 10a A second exemplary embodiment of a base structure is shown wherein the top portion is nested with the bottom portion.

[0127] Figure 10b A bottom portion of the base structure of the second exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0128] Figure 11a A latch system is shown in accordance with a second exemplary embodiment without a base structure.

[0129] Figure 11b A bottom view of the latch system mounted in the bottom portion of a base structure is shown with the latch pivoted into an extended position on a first side of the unit of a second exemplary embodiment.

[0130] Figure 11c A bottom view of the latch system is shown with the latch pivoted into a retracted position on a first side of the unit of a second exemplary embodiment.

[0131] Figure 11d A bottom view of the latch system is shown with the latch pivoted into an extended position on the second side of the unit of the second exemplary embodiment.

[0132] Figure 12a 、 12b and 12c show the animal containment unit of the second exemplary embodiment transitioning from an expanded state to a telescoping state.

[0133] Figure 13a The webbing and tie-down structure of a second exemplary embodiment of an animal containment unit is shown assembled with a frame structure and a base structure.

[0134] Figure 13bA diagram showing a second exemplary embodiment of an animal containment unit mounted in a vehicle.

[0135] Figure 13c The animal containment unit of the second exemplary embodiment is shown deflected by the forces of a motor vehicle crash.

[0136] Figure 14 A second exemplary embodiment is shown in which the animal containment unit is mounted in a vehicle.

[0137] Figure 15a A perspective view is shown of an animal containment unit according to a third exemplary embodiment.

[0138] Figure 15b A bottom view of a third exemplary embodiment of an animal containment unit is shown.

[0139] Figure 16 An X-shaped bar of the frame structure of a third exemplary embodiment of an animal containment unit is shown.

[0140] Figure 17a The arrangement of the latch release actuator of the third exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0141] Figure 17b Arrangement of the first latch unlocking actuator of the third exemplary embodiment.

[0142] Figure 17c The arrangement of the second latch unlocking actuator of the third exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0143] Figure 18a 、 18b , 18c and 19 show various views of an animal enclosure unit according to a fourth exemplary embodiment.

[0144] Figure 20a and 20b The auxiliary latch release mechanism of the unit of the fourth exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0145] Figure 21a and 21b The steeper latch angle of the cell of the fourth exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0146] Figure 22a 、 22b , 22c, 22d and 22e show the actuators of the unit of the fourth exemplary embodiment.

[0147] Figure 23a 、 23b , 23c, 23d, 23e, 23f, 23g, 23h, 23i and 23j show flexible folding locks secured to the base of the unit.

[0148] Figure 24a 、24b , 24c and 24d show handles on the front of the unit.

[0149] Figure 25a and 25b The display unit 400 has feet 422 on its base.

[0150] Figure 26a 、 26b and 26c show a progression of steps for removing enclosure material from a unit.

[0151] Figure 27a and 27b Show details used to remove enclosure materials from the unit.

[0152] Figure 28a 、 28b and 28c show details of the tie-down disconnect extending between the unit and the vehicle seat in various positions.

[0153] Figure 29 Showing the tie down guides connected to the frame structure of the unit.

[0154] Figure 30 Showing the tie-down guide connected to the front member of the frame structure.

[0155] Figure 31 Shown are the step features positioned on the base of the unit.

[0156] Figure 32a and 32b Demonstrates a unit with shock absorption.

[0157] Figure 33a and 33b Showing the unit with a safety net.

[0158] Figure 34a and 34b Detail showing the interface between the tie bolt and the tie bolt disconnect.

[0159] Figure 35a and 35b Detail of a tie down showing a connector connectable to a tie down disconnect.

[0160] Figure 36 An exploded perspective view showing the interface between the tie bolt and the tie bolt disconnect.

[0161] Figure 37 A cross-sectional view showing the interface between the tie bolt and the tie bolt disconnect. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0162] The present invention may be further understood with reference to the following description and accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate like elements. The present invention relates to an animal containment unit for safely containing an animal for transport in a vehicle. The exemplary animal containment unit is designed to have sufficient strength to contain larger animals, such as up to 50 pounds, without failure during a motor vehicle crash, while still maintaining sufficient flexibility to provide cushioning for the animal.

[0163] In one aspect, the unit is reinforced with webbing across its front and top sides to absorb forces that would otherwise be applied to the unit in a car crash (e.g., when an animal inside is thrown against the inside of the unit). In another aspect, a latch system includes a plurality of latches rigidly mounted to the base of the unit for securing the bottom / rear of the unit to an anchor point in the vehicle (i.e., a rigid element coupled to the vehicle's frame) that is accessible, for example, via a gap in the vehicle seat. In yet another aspect, a tie bolt on the top / rear of the unit secures, for example, to another anchor point in the vehicle (e.g., on the rear of the vehicle seat on which the unit is mounted). These features provide a continuous protective ring around the unit, e.g., 360-degree support in both the longitudinal (front-to-back) and lateral (up-down) planes.

[0164] The units described herein generally include a frame structure supported by a base structure. The frame structure of the first exemplary embodiment and the second exemplary embodiment includes a front member and a rear member bent in a U-shape, the ends of which are connected to the base structure and extend generally perpendicular to the base structure, and a top portion is formed therebetween. In the first exemplary embodiment, the frame structure further includes two intermediate support members connecting the front member and the rear member. In the second exemplary embodiment, a tie rod is used to connect the front member and the rear member. The frame structure supports an enclosure material (e.g., soft stuff), which defines a portion of the outer surface and the inner surface of the unit to define a space for enclosing the animal inside. In some embodiments, the enclosure material includes at least two layers, such as a durable outer layer, an intermediate reinforcement layer, and an inner waterproof layer that can be removed, for example, for cleaning. In some embodiments, webbing can be woven into one or more layers of the enclosure material to provide a strong but flexible surface that can absorb the forces applied to it in a car crash.

[0165] The base structure of the first and second exemplary embodiments includes a molded base (e.g., molded from plastic) and a latching system. The first exemplary embodiment further includes a rigid base frame, e.g., composed of steel. The latching system includes at least one latch, e.g., a plurality of rigid latches (e.g., two latches), that protrude or pivot out from the bottom / rear of the base so that the latch can be rigidly coupled to an anchor point in the vehicle to install the unit in the vehicle. The latch can be retracted into the base, e.g., when the unit is not installed, being transported, or stored.

[0166] In one embodiment, the latch system includes a latch bracket coupled to the base frame that supports the latch and facilitates actuation of the latch. The latch bracket can translate (e.g., slide) from a first side of the unit to a second side of the unit, allowing the latch to extend from the base / rear in different positions depending on the location in the vehicle seat where the seat frame is accessible, allowing the unit to be mounted on either side of a rear car seat (e.g., the driver's side or the passenger's side). In addition, the latch bracket can be coupled to a button on the frame, which can, for example, lock the latch in an extended or retracted position and / or release the latch to allow the latch to be moved in and out of the base. In another embodiment, the latch can pivot in and out of the rear portion of the base. As described above, the latch can be locked or unlocked and translated to either side of the unit, as will be described in more detail below.

[0167] In yet another aspect, the unit can transition between an expanded state and a telescoping state. In one embodiment, the intermediate support member can include two members (a front intermediate support member and a rear intermediate support member) that can be attached to provide rigid support between the front and rear members of the frame structure and define the top of the unit in the expanded state. The front and rear members of the intermediate support member can be detached from each other via a sliding actuator, whereupon the front intermediate support member can be rotated relative to the front member into a position flush with the front member, and the rear intermediate support member can be rotated relative to the rear member into a position flush with the rear member. The front member (and the front intermediate support member) can then be rotated (telescoped) toward the base structure via a front rotary actuator and positioned flush with or within the base structure, whereupon the rear member (and the rear intermediate support member) can be rotated (telescoped) toward the base structure via a rear rotary actuator and positioned flush with the front member.

[0168] In one embodiment, the sliding actuator comprises a length of tubing that slides over the front and rear components. The tubing is lockable in a first position, extending toward the opposing components so that the opposing components can slide therein, or in a second position, retracted from the opposing components so that the opposing components are released and can telescope freely. In another embodiment, the tie rod is removable from one or both of the front and / or rear components, after which the front and rear components can telescope toward the base structure.

[0169] It should be noted that a first animal enclosure unit according to a first exemplary embodiment, a second animal enclosure unit according to a second exemplary embodiment, and a third animal enclosure unit according to a third exemplary embodiment are described herein and depicted in the drawings. However, it should be understood that the various features described with respect to the units of the first and second exemplary embodiments may be interchanged in any suitable manner between the embodiments or implemented with other designs of animal enclosure units, as described in further detail below, and that the present invention is not limited to the specific arrangements described in the first, second, and third exemplary embodiments and depicted in the drawings.

[0170] It should be further understood that the units described herein generally have six sides, and are described relative to a front, a rear, a first side (e.g., a left side, relative to a front view), a second side (e.g., a right side, relative to a front view), a bottom, and a top. When the unit is installed in a vehicle, the front of the unit faces toward the front of the vehicle, the rear of the unit faces toward the rear of the vehicle, and so on. However, it should be understood that reference to the "sides" of the unit is for convenience of explanation, and that multiple different components of the unit define the exterior of the unit. For example, the "front" of the unit may include multiple components, including a front portion of the frame structure, a front portion of the enclosure material, a front portion of the base structure, etc. Additionally, the terms "inside" and / or "interior" and / or "inner" may refer to features relative to a particular component of the unit in a direction toward the center of the unit, and the terms "outside" and / or "exterior" and / or "outside" may refer to features relative to a particular component of the unit in a direction away from the center of the unit.

[0171] First Exemplary Embodiment

[0172] Figure 1a -d shows a view of an animal enclosure unit 100 according to a first exemplary embodiment. The unit 100 generally has six sides and is described with respect to the front, rear, first side (e.g., left side, relative to the front view), second side (e.g., right side, relative to the front view), bottom, and top. These sides are shown in FIG. Figure 1a -d, and these marks are omitted in subsequent figures. Figure 1a A perspective view of the display unit 100; Figure 1b A front view of the display unit 100; Figure 1c a side view of the display unit 100; and Figure 1d Top view of display unit 100.

[0173] frame structure

[0174] The unit 100 comprises a frame structure 101 coupled to and supported by a base structure 120, which will be described below with respect to Figure 2a-c is further described. The unit 100 includes a containment material 160 (e.g., soft material) forming the exterior of the unit 100, which will be described below with respect to Figure 6a -d is further described in detail. The unit 100 further comprises a webbing and tie down structure 180 for restraining the force of the animal during a vehicle crash, as will be described below with respect to Figure 7 Described in further detail. Figure 7 The frame structure 101 and webbing and tie-down structure 180 are shown in greater detail, with the enclosure material 160 removed.

[0175] The frame structure 101 includes a front member 102, a rear member 103 and an intermediate support member 104 (a first intermediate support member 104a and a second intermediate support member 104b), which connects the front member 102 and the rear member 103 when the unit 100 is in the deployed state, and will be described below with respect to Figure 4a -c is described in further detail. The front component 102 is curved in a shape similar to a U and is coupled to the base structure 120 at both the first end 114 and the second end 115 via front rotary actuators 154a, 154b. The rear component 103 is shaped similar to the front component 102 in a shape similar to a U and is coupled to the base structure 120 at both the first end 116 and the second end 117 via rear rotary actuators 156a, 156b. It should be noted that in this example, the rear component 103 is slightly shorter than the front component 102 and is mounted to the base structure 120 at a position slightly higher than the front component 102 to facilitate telescoping of the unit 100 and to define a rear cavity 128 in the base structure 120 for latch extension and retraction, as will be described in further detail below.

[0176] The front component 102 extends from a first end 114 toward the top of the unit 100, bends approximately 90 degrees toward the second side and across the top of the unit 100, and bends approximately 90 degrees toward the bottom of the unit 100 to a second end 115. The rear component 103 extends from a first end 116 toward the top of the unit 100, bends approximately 90 degrees toward the second side and across the top of the unit 100, and bends approximately 90 degrees toward the bottom of the unit 100 to a second end 117. The front component 102 of this embodiment comprises a single unitary piece extending from the first end 114 to the second end 115. Alternatively, the front component 102 may comprise multiple parts that are joined together during assembly of the unit 100 (e.g., having different curvatures to define the curvature of the front component 102). Similarly, the rear component 103 may comprise a single unitary piece, or may comprise multiple parts that are joined together during assembly (e.g., having different curvatures to define the curvature of the rear component 103).

[0177] In the present example, the intermediate support member 104 includes two parts, such as a front intermediate support member 105 (a first front intermediate support member 105a of the first intermediate support member 104a and a second front intermediate support member 105b of the second intermediate support member 104b) and a rear intermediate support member 106 (a first rear intermediate support member 106a of the first intermediate support member 104a and a second rear intermediate support member 106b of the second intermediate support member 104b), which can be engaged and / or disengaged via the operation of corresponding sliding actuators 107 (a first sliding actuator 107a of the first intermediate support member and a second sliding actuator 107b of the second intermediate support member), which will be described below with respect to Figure 4a The front intermediate support members 105a, 105b are coupled to the front member 102 at respective front rotational joints 112 (a first front rotational joint 112a of the front member 102 and a second front rotational joint 112b of the front member), and the rear intermediate support member 106 is coupled to the rear member 103 at respective rear rotational joints 113 (the first front rotational joint 112a of the front member 102 and the second front rotational joint 112b of the front member).

[0178] It should be noted that in this example, the front and rear intermediate support members 105, 106 are not removable from their respective rotational joints 112, 113, and the telescoping capability of the unit 100 is provided via the actuator 107 to separate the front and rear intermediate support members 105, 106. However, in other embodiments, the intermediate support member may comprise a unitary piece that is not separable into the front and rear intermediate support members, and the telescoping capability of the unit 100 may be facilitated via a mechanism for removing the intermediate support member from the rotational joints to separate the intermediate support member from the front and / or rear members, as will be described in more detail below.

[0179] In the present example, when the intermediate support member 104 is engaged, such as when the unit 100 is in the deployed configuration for transporting an animal in a vehicle, the intermediate support member 104 rigidly extends from a front swivel joint 112 of the front member 102 to a rear swivel joint 113 of the rear member 103. The front swivel joint 112 is oriented generally perpendicular to the front member 102 to direct the intermediate support member 104 rearward, where it is received in the rear swivel joint 113, which is also oriented generally perpendicular to the rear member 103 (toward the front). When the intermediate support member 104 is separated (the front intermediate support member 105 is removed from the rear intermediate support member 106 via the actuator 107) to, for example, telescope the unit 100, the front rotation joint 112 can be rotated 90 degrees and oriented toward the bottom of the unit 100 so that the front intermediate support member 105 is flush with the front member 102, and the rear rotation joint 113 can be rotated 90 degrees and oriented toward the bottom of the unit 100 so that the rear intermediate support member 106 is flush with the rear member 103.

[0180] The front rotary actuator 154 can then be rotated 90 degrees and oriented toward the rear so that the front intermediate support member 105 and the front member 102 are received within or flush with the base structure 120, whereupon the rear rotary actuator 156 can be rotated 90 degrees and oriented toward the front so that the rear intermediate support member 106 and the rear member 103 are flush with the telescoping front member 102, as will be described below with respect to Figure 4a -c is described in more detail. As described above, the rear component 103 is slightly shorter than the front component 102, and the rear rotary actuator 156 is raised relative to the front rotary actuator 154, as for example Figure 1c As shown in FIG. , when the unit 100 is telescoped ( Figure 4c ), the rear component 103 and / or the rear intermediate support component 106 fits tightly against the telescoping front component 102 and / or the front intermediate support component 105, and / or fits tightly within the telescoping front component and / or the front intermediate support component.

[0181] The front and rear rotary actuators 154, 156 can be locked in any of the positions described above, for example, oriented so that the front component 102 extends toward the top of the unit 100 and defines the front surface of the unit 100, and the rear component 103 extends toward the top of the unit 100 and defines the rear surface of the unit 100 (deployed state), or oriented so that the front component 102 extends toward the rear of the unit 100 and the rear component 103 extends toward the front of the unit 100 (telescoping state). Thus, the frame structure 101 can be locked in the deployed state to provide a rigid frame defining the interior / exterior of the unit 100, and the frame structure 101 can be locked in the telescoping state to facilitate transportation and / or storage of the unit 100.

[0182] refer to Figure 6a -d, the frame structure 101 supports the enclosure material 160 that defines the exterior and interior surfaces of the unit 100, including the enclosure material 160 for the front 165, first side 168, second side 169, top 172, and rear 173 of the unit 100. Some or all of the components of the frame structure 101 may be formed to include extruded channels 118, such as Figure 6a As shown, it extends along the length of the component for receiving a plastic rod 164 that extends through one end of the enclosure material 160. The plastic rod 164 of the enclosure material 160 can be slid or snapped into the extruded channel 118 to mount the enclosure material 160 to the component of the frame structure 101, as will be described below with respect to Figure 6a In the present example, only the front and rear components 102, 103 include extruded channels 118, and the intermediate support member 104 does not directly support the enclosure material 160 for, for example, the first side 168, the second side 169, or the top 172. However, in other embodiments, the intermediate support member 104 may also include extruded channels 118 to support the enclosure material 160.

[0183] refer to Figure 2b and 7 , the frame structure 101 further supports a webbing and tie-down structure 180, which includes webbing 181 secured at a first end to the front member 134 of the base frame 133 and running up the front of the unit 100, around the front member 102 of the frame structure 101, and across the top of the unit 100 to a second end secured to the rear member 103 of the frame structure 101. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the webbing 181 is formed of a material similar to that forming seat belts so that it can withstand the forces that would be exerted on a pet if it were to be thrown against the webbing in a vehicle accident.

[0184] The webbing 181 comprises two spans 181a and 181b extending from a front attachment point 182 on the front member 134 of the base frame 133 toward the top of the unit 100, wrapping around the outside of the front member 102 at a wrap point 184, and toward the rear of the unit 100 to a rear attachment point 186 on the rear member 103, which will be described below with respect to FIG. Figure 7 100 , as described above, to provide a force containment structure that extends across the front and top of the unit 100. The frame structure 101 further supports a tie down 188 that is secured at a first end (comprising two spans) to the rear member 103 of the frame structure 101 at a location similar to where the webbing 181 is secured to the rear member 103 (e.g., rear attachment point 186). The tie down 188 of this embodiment extends from the top / rear of the unit 100 and can be connected to an anchor structure in the vehicle, such as a vehicle frame structure on the rear of a vehicle seat, as will be described below with respect to FIG. Figure 8 It will be appreciated that the webbing 181 may be directly connected to the tie 188 such that one end of the webbing 181 and tie 188 combination is secured to the base frame 133 and the other end may be attached to an anchor structure in the vehicle.

[0185] The frame structure 101 may be formed from any material of suitable strength, such as extruded metal tubing (e.g., aluminum). The aluminum tubing provides a rigid frame structure 101 that is strong enough to stabilize the unit 100 but flexible enough to absorb the force of an animal's impact and deform to reduce the impact on the animal. The sliding actuator 107 may include a metal tubing similar in shape to the frame structure 101, but having interior dimensions slightly larger than the exterior dimensions of the intermediate support members 104, such that the intermediate support members 104 (the rear end of the front intermediate support member 105 and the front end of the rear intermediate support member 106) may be slidably received therein and the sliding actuator 107 may slide thereon to engage and / or disengage (e.g., connect or disconnect) the front and rear intermediate support members 105, 106, as will be described below with respect to Figure 5a -c Describe in more detail.

[0186] base structure

[0187] Figure 2a -c shows the base structure 120 of the unit 100 of the first exemplary embodiment. The base structure 120 includes a base 121 and a base frame 133 mounted to the base 121. The latch bracket 140 is slidably coupled to the base frame 133. Figure 2a Base structure 120 is shown and base 121 is described in more detail. Figure 2b The base frame 133 and latch bracket 140 of the base structure 120 are shown. Figure 2cA side view of the base structure 120 is shown.

[0188] The base 121 can be molded from plastic, for example. The base 121 includes a bottom 122 and a frame (not to be confused with the base frame 133 described below) comprising a front portion 123, side portions 124 (a first side portion 124a and a second side portion 124b), and a rear portion 125. The front portion 123, side portions 124, and rear portion 125 are shaped to have internal channels to receive corresponding components of the base frame 133, thereby mounting the base frame 133 on the base 121. At the front corners of the base 121 (on the front portion 123 near the intersection of the front portion 123 and the first side portion 124a; and on the front portion 123 near the intersection of the front portion 123 and the second side portion 124b) are respective front recesses 126 (first front recess 126a and second front recess 126b) that extend toward the top of the unit 100 to receive and couple to a front rotary actuator 154, which will be described below with respect to FIG. Figure 5a Similarly, at the rear corners of base 121 (on rear portion 125 near the intersection of rear portion 125 and first side portion 124a; and on rear portion 125 near the intersection of rear portion 125 and second side portion 124b) are respective rear recesses 127 (first rear recess 127a and second rear recess 127b) that extend toward the top of unit 100 to receive and couple to rear rotary actuator 156.

[0189] The internal channel formed in the rear portion 125 of the base 121 (for mounting the base frame 133 (rear member 136) to the base 121) is raised relative to the channels formed in the front portion 123 and the side portions 124, as shown. Figure 2c In the rear portion 125, below the channel for the base frame 133 is a rear cavity 128 through which the latch 150 of the latch bracket 140 can extend, as will be described further below.

[0190] The base 121 further includes a first slot 129a formed therein that extends laterally (left to right) across the bottom portion 122, and a second slot 129b formed therein that extends laterally (left to right) across the bottom portion 122. The first slot 129a is positioned farther toward the rear of the unit 100 than the second slot 129b. The first and second slots 129 facilitate lateral translation of the latch bracket 140, as will be further described below.

[0191] like Figure 2bAs shown in detail in FIG, the base frame 133 includes a front member 134, two side members 135 (a first side member 135a and a second side member 135b), and a rear member 136. In this embodiment, the front member 134, side members 135, and rear member 136 are formed from a metal such as steel. In the present example, these members are formed from square steel stock and welded at the joints between the members. The rear member 136 protrudes relative to the front member 134 and side members 135. The rear member 136 is joined to the first and second side members 135a, 135b via corresponding brackets 137a, 137b, which can be formed from, for example, bent sheet metal. In this embodiment, the front member 134, side members 135, and rear member 136 include through-holes for mounting the base frame 133 to the base 121. In some embodiments, only the front member and side members 134, 135 may include through-holes. In the present example, the members of the base frame 133 are formed from square steel stock of the same size. However, in other embodiments, the corresponding components of the base frame 133 may have different cross-sectional sizes, for example, the rear component 136 of the base frame 133 may be formed of a taller steel than the front component 134 and the side components 135 .

[0192] The base frame 133 provides the structure of the unit 100, which is configured to withstand large forces applied thereto, such as those experienced in the event of a crash of the vehicle to which the unit 100 is mounted. As will be described in greater detail below, the base frame 133 provides a rigid structure to which a rigid latch 150 is attached at the rear and to which webbing 181 is attached at the front. The webbing 181 wraps around the front and top to the rear, and a tie-down 188 extends from the rear to an anchor point within the vehicle (in some embodiments, behind the vehicle seat), effectively providing a complete protective ring around the unit 100.

[0193] The latch bracket 140 includes a front member 141 that is coupled to the front member 134 of the base frame 133 via two front guides 142 that are slidably coupled to the front member 134. The latch bracket 140 further includes two side members 143 (a first side member 143a and a second side member 143b) that extend from a first end on the inner surface of the front member 141 to a second end toward the rear of the latch bracket 140. Each side member 143 of the latch bracket 140 has a rear guide 144 fixed thereto (to the top of the side member 143) to couple the side member 143 to the rear member 136 of the base frame 133 (which is raised relative to the rest of the base frame 133 and the latch bracket 140). A first rear guide 144a on the first side member 143a and a second rear guide 144b on the second side member 143b are slidably coupled to the rear member 136. The front guide 142 and the rear guide 144 allow the latch bracket 140 to translate (in a direction parallel to the front and rear members) along the front and rear members 134, 136 toward and / or away from the first and / or second sides (e.g., left and right) of the unit 100. The front guide 142 of this embodiment is formed, for example, from square stock steel having inner dimensions slightly larger than the outer dimensions of the front member 134, and the rear guide 144 can be formed from square stock steel having inner dimensions slightly larger than the outer dimensions of the rear member 136. In the present example, the components of the base frame 133 and the components of the latch bracket 140 are formed from the same size square stock steel, and the front guide 142 and the rear guide 144 are the same size. It should be appreciated that the front and rear guides 142 and 144 , and the corresponding front and rear components 134 and 136 , may comprise stock steel having other configurations, such as rectangular, cylindrical, or yet other configurations.

[0194] The two side members 143 are coupled to respective middle members 145 (a first middle member 145a and a second middle member 145b) via two middle guides 146 (a first middle guide 146a and a second middle guide 146b) that are slidably coupled to the middle member 145. The middle guides 146 allow the middle members 145 to translate (slide) relative to the side members 143 toward and / or away from the front and / or rear of the unit 100. The first middle member 145a is coupled to the outer side of the first side member 143a (relative to the center of the latch bracket 140), and the second middle member 145b is coupled to the outer side of the second side member 143b (relative to the center of the latch bracket 140).

[0195] The first end of the bar 148 is fixed to the first intermediate member 145a, extends through the slot 147 in the side member 143, and its second end is fixed to the second intermediate member 145b. The side members 143 each have a slot 147 extending therethrough (with respect to the left-right direction) and further extending through the rear portion of the side members 143 toward the rear of the latch bracket 140 (e.g., the first slot 147a extends through the first side member 143a, and the second slot 147b extends through the second side member 143b). The sliding member 149 depends from the bar 148. When the unit 100 is assembled and the latch 150 is retracted into the rear cavity 128, the latch 150 is retracted. Figure 2a , the sliding member 149 is received in the first slot 129a on the bottom 122 of the molded base 121 and can slide within the first slot 129a as the latch bracket 140 translates laterally to reposition the latch 150. When the latch 150 extends out the rear of the unit 100, the sliding member 149 is forced out of the first slot 129a. Figure 2c As shown, the intermediate guide 146 coupling the intermediate member 145 of the latch bracket to the side members 143 is laterally slidable within the second slot 129b.

[0196] A respective latch 150 is secured to each of the rear ends of the two intermediate members 145 (a first latch 150a is secured to the first intermediate member 145a and a second latch 150b is secured to the second intermediate member 145b). The latches 150 each have a latch end 151 shaped to engage a support structure in the vehicle, such as a rigid member coupled to a steel frame within the seat (e.g., an isofix anchor point), as will be described below with respect to FIG. Figure 8 The latch may extend out of the rear cavity 128 of the rear portion 125 of the molded base 121 or may be retracted into the rear cavity 128 .

[0197] In the non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein, the at least one latch 150 can be considered a "rigid latch." A rigid latch is not mounted via a flexible structure (e.g., a strap) and extends a fixed distance from the device when deployed. In this way, when installed in a vehicle and connected to an ISOFIX anchor point, any relative movement between the unit 100 and the vehicle seat is minimized or eliminated. Other example embodiments of any of the animal containment units 100 disclosed herein may have at least one non-rigid or "soft" latch mounted via a flexible structure, such as one or more straps, which can be adjustably tightened by a user to securely fit in the vehicle.

[0198] In the following, Figure 3a-g Describing in further detail, a front button 153 can be secured or coupled to the latch bracket 140 via a front slot 131 formed in the front portion 123 of the molded base 121. In this example, the front button 153 is mounted directly to a front guide 142, which is secured to the front member 141 of the latch bracket 140 and slidably coupled to the front member 134 of the base frame 133. The front button 153 is coupled to the latch 150 such that operation of the front button locks or unlocks the latch 150, such that the latch 150 can be locked in or transitioned to an extended position (extended out the rear of the unit 100 for installation in a vehicle) or retracted to a retracted position (retracted into a rear cavity 128 in the rear portion 125 of the molded base 121).

[0199] In addition, two side actuators 152 (a first side actuator 152a on the first side portion 124a of the base 121 and a second side actuator 152b on the second side portion 124b of the base 121) can be coupled to or disengaged from the latch bracket 140 to lock the latch bracket 140 on the first side or the second side of the unit 100. The side actuators 152 can be pushed in to lock the latch bracket 140 or pulled out to release the latch bracket 140. When the latch 150 and / or latch bracket 140 are unlocked (via the front button 153 or the side actuators 152), a user can manually move the latch or latch bracket into a desired position, for example, by removing an interior removable cushion 175 covering the base structure 120 and accessing the latch bracket 140. In an alternative embodiment, the latch 150 may be connected to a biasing member that biases the latch 150 toward the extended position such that when the front button 153 is pushed, the latch 150 transitions from the retracted position to the extended position.

[0200] Latch actuation and repositioning of the latch bracket

[0201] As described above, the latch 150 of the unit 100 is secured to the middle member 145, which is slidably coupled to the side members 143. The middle member 145 can be released from the side members 143 and slid toward and / or away from the rear and / or front of the unit 100. The front button 153 is secured to the front guide 142 via the front slot 131 in the molded base 121 (the front guide 142 is secured to the front member 141 of the latch bracket 140 and slidably coupled to the front member 134 of the base frame 133). The front button 153 of this embodiment is spring-loaded (provided in the spring-containing cavity 130) and can be pressed to lock the middle member 145 to prevent forward / rearward translation or release the middle member 145 to allow forward / rearward translation, for example, to extend the latch 150 out of the rear of the unit 100 or retract the latch 150 within the rear of the unit 100.

[0202] The middle member 145 can then be locked by pressing the front button 153 again to lock the latch 150, for example, in the extended position. The front button 153 can be pressed to lock the latch 150 in either the extended or retracted position, and to unlock the latch 150 from either the extended or retracted position. Any suitable mechanism can be used to lock the middle member 145 to the side members 143. For example, the front button 153 can be connected to a cable that is connected to a pin that extends away from the side members 143 toward the middle member 145. The pin can be received in a corresponding hole in the middle member 145 to lock the middle member 145 relative to the side members 143 and, accordingly, lock the latch 150 in either the extended or retracted position. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other mechanisms can also be used to lock / unlock the middle member 145.

[0203] In the present example, actuation of the front button 153 locks / unlocks the latch 150. However, in alternative embodiments, the front button 153 can be configured to automatically extend and / or retract the latch 150 without manual user intervention. In alternative embodiments, the latch 150 can be connected to a biasing member that biases the latch 150 toward the extended position such that when the front button 153 is pushed, the latch 150 transitions from the retracted position to the extended position.

[0204] Independent of the mechanism described above for locking / releasing the latch 150 for forward and backward movement, the latch bracket 140 can be integrally locked and / or released for lateral movement. As described above, the latch bracket 140 can be positioned toward the first side of the unit 100 or toward the second side of the unit 100. When the latch bracket 140 is positioned toward the first side of the unit 100, the latch bracket 140 can be locked in place using a first side actuator 152a located in a side cavity 132a of the molded base 121. The first side actuator 152a may, for example, have an internal component that couples to the middle guide 146a of the latch bracket 140 when the middle guide 146a is pushed into the first side actuator 152a. The latch bracket 140 can be released by pulling the first side actuator 152a and disengaging the latch bracket 140 from the first side actuator 152a.

[0205] The latch bracket 140 can slide toward the second side of the unit 100 with the sliding member 149 in the first slot 129a and the intermediate guide 146 in the second slot 129b. When the latch bracket 140 is positioned toward the second side of the unit 100, the latch bracket 140 can be locked in place using a second side actuator 152b located in the side cavity 132b of the molded base 121. The second side actuator has an internal component that couples to the intermediate guide 146b of the latch bracket 140 when the intermediate guide 146b is pushed into the first side actuator 152b. It should be understood that either side actuator 152a, 152b can be actuated to release the latch bracket 140. For example, regardless of whether the latch bracket 140 is positioned on the first side or the second side of the unit 100, either of the actuation side actuators 152a, 152b can release the latch bracket 140 so that the latch bracket 140 can be transferred to the other of the first side and the second side of the unit 100.

[0206] Figure 3a -g shows actuating the latch 150 and operating the latch bracket 140 to reposition the latch 150 of the unit 100 of the first exemplary embodiment. Figure 3a The base structure 120 is shown with the latch bracket 140 in a first position toward a first side of the unit 100. The latches 150a, 150b are withdrawn into the rear cavity 128 of the rear portion 125 of the base 121. In this example, the latches 150a, 150b are locked in the withdrawn position.

[0207] Figure 3b The front button 153 is shown coupled to the latch bracket 140 such that pressing the front button 153 releases the latch 150. The latch 150 can be slid out to a desired length where it extends out of the rear cavity 128 (eg, manually). Figure 3c The base structure 120 is shown with the latch bracket 140 in the first position and the latch 150 extended out of the rear cavity 128. The front button 153 can be pressed a second time to lock the latch 150 in the extended position. Alternatively, the latch 150 can automatically lock into the extended position after the latch 150 transitions from the retracted position to the extended position. To release the latch 150, the front button 153 can be actuated, and the latch can transition from the extended position back to the retracted position.

[0208] Figure 3d The first side actuator 152a is shown positioned in the first side cavity 132a in the first side portion 124a of the molded base 121. The first side actuator 152a can be pulled out to release the latch bracket 140 from the first side. The latch bracket 140 can then translate toward the second side. As the latch bracket 140 moves, the front button 153 slides within the front slot 131, as shown in FIG. Figure 3e shown.

[0209] Figure 3f The base structure 120 is shown with the latch bracket 140 in a second position toward the second side of the unit 100. When the latch bracket 140 has entered the second position, it can lock into the second side actuator 152b. If desired, the user can withdraw the latch 150 back into the rear cavity 128 by pressing the front button 153 to release the latch 150. Figure 3g The base structure 120 is shown with the latch bracket 140 in the second position and with the latch 150 withdrawn into the rear cavity 128. The front button 153 can be pressed a second time to lock the latch 150 in the withdrawn position.

[0210] Expandable / telescopic animal enclosure units

[0211] The unit 100 of this embodiment is convertible between an expanded state and a telescoping state. The unit 100 can be locked into either of the two states using the front and rear rotary actuators 154, 156 and the actuator 107 of the intermediate support member 104 of the frame structure 101. In the expanded state, the frame structure 101 provides a rigid framework for supporting the enclosure material 160 and the webbing and tie-down structure 180 and defining the interior / exterior aspects of the unit 100. In the telescoping state, the frame structure 101, the enclosure material 160, and the webbing and tie-down structure 180 are folded into, substantially flush with, or adjacent to the base structure 120 to provide a slim configuration for easy portability.

[0212] Figure 4a -c shows the unit 100 of the first exemplary embodiment transitioning from the expanded state into the telescoping state. Figure 4a The display unit 100 is in an unfolded state; Figure 4b The display unit 100 is transformed into the telescoping state; Figure 4c The display unit 100 is in a telescoping state.

[0213] In the deployed state, the unit 100 is configured such that the intermediate support members 104 are engaged and form a rigid connection between the front member 102 and the rear member 103. To disengage the intermediate support members 104, the actuators 107 (a first sliding actuator 107a of the first intermediate support member 104a and a second sliding actuator 107b of the second intermediate support member 104b) slide toward the front member 102 to expose the rear intermediate support member 106. Figure 5a -c shows the actuator 107 of the intermediate support member 104 transitioning from a first position engaged with the rear intermediate support member 106 to a second position disengaged from the rear intermediate support member 106 to allow the unit 100 to telescope. Figure 5aA perspective view showing the actuator 107 in a first state, wherein the front intermediate support member 105 and the rear intermediate support member 106 are connected via the actuator 107; Figure 5b A side view showing the actuator 107 in a first state; Figure 5c A side view of the actuator 107 is shown in a second state, wherein the front intermediate support member 105 and the actuator 107 are disconnected from the rear intermediate support member 106 .

[0214] The actuator 107 comprises a length of tubing with an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the intermediate support member 104, allowing the actuator 107 to slide over the front intermediate support member 105 and the rear intermediate support member 106. The actuator 107 of this embodiment is coupled to the front intermediate support member 105 at two different locations above the front intermediate support member 105. The front intermediate support member 105 has a spring-loaded button 108 attached to its side surface, and each of the sliding actuators 107 has two openings 109, such as a front opening 109a and a rear opening 109b, through which the button 108 can protrude (e.g., snap / snap into) the openings. When the button 108 snaps into the front opening 109a, the actuator 107 extends out of the front intermediate support member 105 toward the rear of the unit 100. The distance between the front middle support member 105 and the rear middle support member 106 is such that when the actuator 107 is extended towards the rear away from the rear end of the front middle support member 105, the front of the rear middle support member 106 can slide into the channel of the actuator 107. This provides a rigid joint that completes the rigid structure of the frame structure 101 when the unit 100 is deployed.

[0215] To disengage the actuator 107 from the rear intermediate support member 106, the button 108 can be pressed, the actuator 107 can be slid toward the front, and the button 108 can engage the rear opening 109b of the actuator 107. The position of the button 108 relative to the rear opening 109b of the actuator 107 is such that, in this position, the rear intermediate support member 106 is not covered by the tubing of the actuator 107, thereby disengaging the front intermediate support member 105 from the rear intermediate support member 106. This allows the front intermediate support member 105 and the rear intermediate support member 106 to telescope toward their respective sides. As previously described, the front intermediate support member 105 is coupled to the front member 102 at the front rotational joint 112, and the rear intermediate support member 106 is coupled to the rear member 103 at the rear rotational joint 113. When the middle support member 104 is disengaged via the actuator 107, the user is free to rotate the respective members toward their respective sides by rotating the rotational joints 112, 113. It should be noted that the webbing 181 can be extended through the channel 111 formed by the plastic ring 110 of the actuator. In other embodiments, the front middle support member 105 and the rear middle support member 106 can be connected by a rotational joint (not shown) that is released by the actuator 107 or a similar structure, thereby allowing the front middle support member 105 and the rear middle support member 106 to remain connected to each other when telescoping toward their respective sides.

[0216] As previously described, the front component 102 of the frame structure 101 is coupled to the base structure 120 via the front rotary actuator 154, and the rear component 103 of the frame structure 101 is coupled to the base structure 120 via the rear rotary actuator 156. The front rotary actuator 154 and the rear rotary actuator 156 include spring-loaded buttons that can be pressed to rotate the actuators 154, 156. When the buttons of the two front rotary actuators 154 are pressed, the front rotary actuators 154 are released to rotate toward the base of the unit 100. When the buttons of the two rear rotary actuators 156 are pressed, the rear rotary actuators 156 are released to rotate toward the base of the unit 100. The buttons can be released to lock the rotary actuators 154, 156 and the components of the frame structure 101 coupled to the rotary actuators 154, 156 in place.

[0217] Figure 4a Display unit 100 is in the unfolded state. Front rotary actuator 154 is locked by positioning front member 102 (e.g., its longitudinal plane) perpendicular to base 121. Rear rotary actuator 156 is locked by positioning rear member 103 perpendicular to base 121. Front intermediate support member 105 is engaged with rear intermediate support member 106 via actuator 107.

[0218] Figure 4bDisplay unit 100 transitions to a telescoping state. Slide actuator 107 has disengaged front intermediate support member 105 from rear intermediate support member 106. Front intermediate support member 105 has been rotated downward so that front intermediate support member 105 (e.g., its longitudinal plane) is parallel to front member 102. Rear intermediate support member 106 has been rotated downward so that rear intermediate support member 106 (e.g., its longitudinal plane) is parallel to rear member 103. Front member 102 rotates and telescopes toward the base first, and then rear member 103 follows, rotating and telescoping toward the base.

[0219] As previously described, the base 121 is shaped so that the front recess 126 for the front rotary actuator 154 is located closer to the base 122 than the rear recess 127 for the rear rotary actuator 156. Thus, when the front member 102 and the attached front intermediate support member 105 are rotated toward the base 122, these members can rotate 90 degrees from their original position and lie flat across the top of the latch bracket 140 and partially or completely within the base 121. When the rear member 103 and the attached rear intermediate support member 106 are rotated toward the base 122, these members can rotate 90 degrees from their original position and lie flat across the top of the front member 102.

[0220] Figure 4c The display unit 100 is in the telescoping state. The unit 100 can be locked into the telescoping state for storage, shipping, carrying, etc.

[0221] Material

[0222] As described above, the frame structure 101 supports the enclosure material 160 (e.g., soft objects), which defines the exterior surface of the unit 100 and the interior surface of the unit 100, thereby defining a space within which the animal is housed. The enclosure material may have several layers of material. In this example, the enclosure material includes a durable outer layer, a middle reinforcement layer, and an inner waterproof layer that can be removed, for example, for cleaning.

[0223] Figure 6a -d Enclosure material 160 of display unit 100 . Figure 6a A cross-sectional view of the enclosure material 160 is shown. Figure 6a As shown, enclosure material 160 generally comprises an outer layer 161, a reinforcement layer 162, and an inner layer 163. Outer layer 161 may be, for example, a durable material, while reinforcement layer 162 may be a softer material to protect the animal from harmful contact with the vehicle and metal frame (e.g., foam). Inner layer 163 may be, for example, a durable, waterproof fabric. Inner layer 163 may be removable for cleaning. It should be understood that additional layers may be provided. Figure 6b showing an outer layer 161 of the enclosure material 160 with the unit 100 in an expanded state; Figure 6cshowing the reinforcement layer 162 of the enclosure material 160 with the unit 100 in the deployed state; Figure 6d The inner layer 163 of the containment material 160 is shown with the unit 100 in an expanded state.

[0224] The enclosure material 160 further includes a plastic strip 164 that runs across one side of the enclosure material 160. For certain portions of the enclosure material, the plastic strip 164 may be included to attach the enclosure material 160 to the base structure 120. As described above, some or all of the components of the frame structure 101 may be formed with extruded channels 118, such as Figure 6a As shown, it extends along the length of the component for receiving a plastic strip 164 that runs through the enclosure material 160. The plastic strip 164 can be slid or snapped into the extruded channel 118 to mount the enclosure material 160 to the component.

[0225] The enclosure material 160 and the frame structure 101 can be designed in various ways, such as so that the enclosure material 160 for the first side 168, top 172, and second side 169 comprises a single, unitary piece having plastic bars 164 coupled to extruded channels 118 in the front and rear components 102, 103. In another example, the enclosure material 160 for each side (top, first side, second side, front, back) can be a separate piece, each supported on a component of the frame structure 101 via a separate extruded channel 118. In the present example, only the front and rear components 102, 103 include extruded channels 118, and the intermediate support component 104 does not directly support the enclosure material 160 for, for example, the first side 168, second side 169, or top 172. However, in other embodiments, the intermediate support component 104 may also include extruded channels 118 to support the enclosure material 160.

[0226] The enclosure material 160 for the unit 100 includes a front portion 165, a first side 168, a second side 169, a top 172, and a back portion 173. As previously described, the enclosure material 160 can be connected to the base structure 120 or the frame structure 101. In one embodiment, the base structure 120, the frame structure 101, and the enclosure material 160 cooperate to define an enclosure or space within which an animal can be enclosed. The front portion 165 includes windows 166 to allow air flow and to facilitate viewing from inside and outside the unit 100. The front portion 165 further includes slots 167 (e.g., a first slot, a second slot, and a third slot) for weaving webbing 181 into the front portion 165, which will be discussed below with respect to FIG. Figure 7Detailed description. Both the first side 168 and the second side 169 may include a door 170 for accessing the interior of the unit 100, for example, to place an animal inside or to remove an animal. In such embodiments, the door may be connected to the first side 168 and / or the second side 169 via a zipper. In another example, only the first side 168 or the second side 169 may have a door 170. The first side 168 and / or the second side 169 and / or the rear portion 173 may also have a window 171, similar to the window 166 in the front portion 165.

[0227] In this example, the webbing 181 is interleaved with (e.g., woven into) the slots 167 in the outer layer 161 only (e.g., not woven into the middle or inner layers 162). In other embodiments, the webbing 181 is woven into additional layers. In addition, the unit 100 includes an internal cushioning pad 174 on the base that can be removed to access the latch bracket 140.

[0228] Webbing and tie-downs

[0229] As discussed above, unit 100 is reinforced with webbing and tie-down structures 180 that provide additional reinforcement for the unit when it is installed in a vehicle. Webbing 181 extends across the front and top of unit 100 to restrain the animal by absorbing forces applied to unit 100 in the event of a car crash (e.g., when an animal inside is thrown against the inside of unit 100) and transmitting the forces to the vehicle's frame. In use, tie-downs 188 on the top / rear of unit 100 secure to one or more anchor points in the vehicle (e.g., on the back of a vehicle seat). These features, combined with latches 150 rigidly mounted to base 121 of unit 100 and a rigid base frame 133, provide a continuous loop of protection (e.g., 360-degree support) around unit 100.

[0230] Figure 7The webbing and tie-down structure 180 of the unit 100 is shown assembled with the frame structure 101 and the base structure 120. The webbing 181 includes two spans (e.g., a first span 181a and a second span 181b) extending from a front attachment point 182 (a first front attachment point 182a and a second front attachment point 182b) on the front member 134 of the base frame 133 to a rear attachment point 185 (a first rear attachment point 185a and a second rear attachment point 185b) on the rear member 103. Each of the first span 181a and the second span 181b includes a front portion 183 woven through at least one layer of the front 165 enclosure material 160. The first end of the front portion 183 is attached to the front part 134 of the base frame 133 and extends within the first portion of the front 165 to extend outside the front 165 at the first gap so that the webbing continues to the second gap and extends within the second portion of the front 165 to the third gap, at which time the remainder of the span of the webbing 181 extends outside the enclosure material 160.

[0231] The webbing 181 continues around the top of the front member 102 at a wrap point 184. The webbing 181 continues to the top portion and is routed through the channel 111 of the actuator 107 on the intermediate support member 104 to a rear attachment point 185 on the rear member 103. In one aspect, the webbing 181 can continue along the top portion without being routed through the channel 111 of the actuator 107.

[0232] The tie 188 comprises two spans 189, the first ends of which are sewn around the rear component 103, for example, at the rear attachment point 185 of the webbing 181. The two spans 189 are brought together at an attachment point 190. From the attachment point 190, the tie 188 continues to a rear span 191, the end of which has a connector 192 for an anchor point in the vehicle. In one aspect, one end of the two spans 189 of the tie 188 is directly connected to the respective spans 181a, 181b, and the other ends of the two spans 189 of the tie 188 are brought together at the attachment point 190.

[0233] In some vehicles, the rearward-facing side of the rear seat may have an anchor location for the tie-down 188. In other vehicles, the anchor location may be located elsewhere in the vehicle.

[0234] Figure 8 A diagram shows the unit 100 of the first exemplary embodiment installed in a vehicle. As shown, the latch 150 is connected to the car's steel frame at its latch end 151. A connector 192 at the end of the tie 188 wraps from the rear member 103 of the frame structure 101 to an anchor point on the back of the vehicle seat. This completes the protective loop of the tie 188 from the latch 150 through the base frame 133, through the webbing 181, and finally through the anchor attached to the back of the seat.

[0235] Second Exemplary Embodiment

[0236] Figure 9a -c shows a view of an animal enclosure unit 200 according to a second exemplary embodiment. Similar to the unit 100 described above, the unit 200 generally has six sides (although any other arrangement that provides the desired space for enclosure of an animal may be used) and is described with respect to the front, rear, first side (e.g., left side, relative to the front view), second side (e.g., right side, relative to the front view), bottom, and top. These sides are shown in FIG. Figure 9a Marked in and omitted in subsequent figures. Figure 9a A perspective view of the display unit 200; Figure 9b An exploded view of the display unit 200; Figure 9c Top view of display unit 200.

[0237] frame structure

[0238] Unit 200 includes a frame structure 201 coupled to and supported by a base structure 224, as will be described below with respect to Figure 10a -b is further described. The unit 200 includes a containment material 250 (e.g., soft material) forming the exterior of the unit 200, which may be similar to the containment material 160 described with respect to the first exemplary embodiment. The unit 200 further includes a webbing and tie-down structure 270 ( Figure 9a -c), similar to the webbing and tie structure 180 of the first exemplary embodiment, as will be described below with respect to Figure 13a -c further describes in detail.

[0239] Frame structure 201 includes a front member 202, a rear member 203, and a tie rod 204 that connects the front and rear members 202, 203 when unit 200 is in the deployed state, as will be described in further detail below with respect to FIG. Front member 202 is curved in a U-like shape and is coupled to base structure 224 at both a first end 210 and a second end 211 via front rotary actuators 220a, 220b. Rear member 203 is shaped similarly to front member 202 in a U-like shape and is coupled to base structure 224 at both a first end 212 and a second end 213 via rear rotary actuators 221a, 221b. Front member 202 and rear member 203 may be shaped similarly to front member 102 and rear member 103 of the first exemplary embodiment.

[0240] The front member 202 extends from a first end 210 toward the top of the unit 200, bends approximately 90 degrees toward the second side and across the top of the unit 200, and bends approximately 90 degrees toward the bottom of the unit 200 to a second end 211. The rear member 203 extends from a first end 212 toward the top of the unit 200, bends approximately 90 degrees toward the second side and across the top of the unit 200, and bends approximately 90 degrees toward the bottom of the unit 200 to a second end 213. The front member 202 and the rear member 203 can each comprise a single unitary piece, or can each comprise multiple parts that are joined together during assembly.

[0241] Tie rod 204 includes a front intermediate support member 205, a rear intermediate support member 207, and a center intermediate support member 209. Front intermediate support member 205 is curved in a U-like shape and is coupled to front member 202 at both a first end 206a and a second end 206b via front rotational joints 216a, 216b. Rear member 203 is shaped similarly to front member 202 in a U-like shape and is coupled to base structure 224 at both a first end 212 and a second end 213 via rear rotational actuators 221a, 221b. Similar to the first exemplary embodiment described above, rear member 203 is slightly shorter than front member 202 and is mounted to base structure 224 at a position slightly higher than front member 202 to facilitate telescoping of unit 200.

[0242] The tie rod 204 of the present example is not separable into multiple parts, in contrast to the intermediate support member 104 described above with respect to the first exemplary embodiment, which can be separated into the front intermediate support member 105 and the rear intermediate support member 106 via the actuator 107 to telescope the frame structure 101. In fact, the tie rod 204 can be detached from one or both of the front member 202 and / or the rear member 203 to telescope the frame structure 201. The first end 206a and the second end 206b of the front intermediate support member 205 of the tie rod 204 can be clamped into the front rotation joints 216a, 216b under a pushing force and can be disengaged from the front rotation joints 216a, 216b under a pulling force. In a similar manner, the first and second ends 208a, 208b of the rear intermediate support member 207 of the tie rod 204 can be clamped into the rear rotation joints 217a, 217b under a pushing force and can be disengaged from the rear rotation joints 217a, 217b under a pulling force. To telescope the unit 200, the tie rod 204 can be removed from one or both of the front member 202 and / or the rear member 203 of the frame structure 201, as will be described in more detail below.

[0243] See Figure 9a-b. The frame structure 201 supports the enclosure material 250 that defines the exterior and interior surfaces of the unit 200, including the enclosure material 250 for the front 251, first side 252, second side 253, top 254, and rear 255 of the unit 200. Some portions of the enclosure material 250 may be wrapped around the exterior of the frame structure 201, while other portions of the enclosure material 250 may be located within the frame structure 201. In the present example, the enclosure material 250 wraps around the exterior of the front and rear components 202, 203; however, the tie rod 204 is located on the exterior of the enclosure material 250 on the top 254 of the unit 200. Thus, the tie rod 204 can also serve as a handle for carrying the unit 200 in the deployed state.

[0244] See Figure 13a -b, the frame structure 201 further supports a webbing and tie-down structure 270, which includes a webbing 271 secured at a first end to the base structure 224 and extending upward along the front of the unit 200, around the front portion 202 of the frame structure 201, and across the top of the unit 200 to a second end secured to a rear portion 203 of the frame structure 201, as will be described in more detail below.

[0245] The frame structure 201 may be formed from extruded metal tubing, such as aluminum, similar to the first exemplary embodiment. The aluminum tubing provides a rigid frame structure 201 that is strong enough to stabilize the unit 200 but flexible enough to absorb the force of an animal's impact and deform to reduce the impact on the animal, as described below with respect to Figure 13c Described in further detail.

[0246] base structure

[0247] Figure 10a -b shows the base structure 224 of the unit 200 of the second exemplary embodiment. The base structure 224 comprises a top portion 225 and a bottom portion 234 that is nested with the top portion 225 sliding into the bottom portion 234. Figure 10a Showing base structure 224 with top portion 225 nested within bottom portion 234; Figure 10b A bottom portion 234 of the base structure 224 is shown.

[0248] The top portion 225 and the bottom portion 234 can be molded from plastic, for example. The top portion 225 includes a bottom portion 226 and a frame that includes a front portion 227, side portions 228 (a first side portion 228a and a second side portion 228b), and a rear portion 229. At the front corners of the top portion 225 (on the front portion 227 near the intersection of the front portion 227 and the first side portion 228a; and on the front portion 227 near the intersection of the front portion 227 and the second side portion 228b) are respective front notches 230 (a first front notch 230a and a second front notch 230b) that extend through the top portion 225 to receive and couple to the front rotary actuator 220. Similarly, on the rear corners of the top portion 225 (on the rear portion 229 near the intersection of the rear portion 229 and the first side portion 228a; and on the rear portion 229 near the intersection of the rear portion 229 and the second side portion 228b) are respective rear recesses 231 (first rear recess 231a and second rear recess 231b) that extend through the top portion 225 to receive and couple to the rear rotary actuator 217. Similar to the first exemplary embodiment, the rear recesses 231 are raised relative to the front recesses 230, as shown in FIG. Figure 9b and 10a shown.

[0249] The bottom portion 234 includes a bottom portion 235 and a frame including a front portion 236, side portions 237 (a first side portion 237a and a second side portion 237b), and a rear portion 238. In the rear portion 238 are cutout portions 239 in the bottom portion 235 and the rear portion 238, which contain a latch system 240 of a second exemplary embodiment, as described below with respect to Figure 11a -d is further described. The bottom portion 234 further includes a lock 246 for the latch system 240 in a recess in the bottom 235.

[0250] Latch system

[0251] The latch system 240 of the second exemplary embodiment comprises a pivoting rigid latch. It should be understood that the latch may comprise a sliding, retractable rigid latch as described above in the first exemplary embodiment. The latch system 240 is located at the bottom of the unit 200 and is accessible by a user from outside the unit 200 to transition (pivot) the latch 242 into and / or out of the base structure 224 and / or slide the latch 242 from a first position on a first side of the unit 200 to a second position on a second side of the unit 200.

[0252] Figure 11a -d shows the latching system 240 of the unit 200 of the second exemplary embodiment. Figure 11a The latch system 240 is shown without the base structure 224; Figure 11b shows a bottom view of the latch system 240 mounted in the bottom portion 234 of the base structure 224 with the latch 242 pivoted into an extended position on a first side of the unit 200; Figure 11c showing a bottom view of the latch system 240 with the latch 242 pivoted into a retracted position on a first side of the unit 200; Figure 11d A bottom view of the latch system 240 is shown with the latch 242 pivoted into an extended position on the second side of the unit 200 .

[0253] The latch system 240 includes a bar 241 mounted to the rear portion 238 of the bottom portion 234 within a bottom cutout 239. Two rigid latches 242 (e.g., a first latch 242a and a second latch 242b) are slidably and rotatably coupled to the bar 241 such that the latches 242 can slide along the length of the bar 241 and pivot about the bar 241. The first latch 242a and the second latch 242b are connected to a rigid member therebetween so that a constant distance between the first latch 242a and the second latch 242b is maintained. The latches 242 have latch ends 243 for connecting to an anchor point in the vehicle, such as a steel frame structure.

[0254] The latch system 240 further includes two brackets 244 (a first bracket 244a and a second bracket 244b) secured around the bar 241. The brackets 244 prevent lateral movement of the latch 242 when the latch 242 is pivoted out in the extended position. The brackets 244 further include a connection feature 245 for coupling the webbing 271 to the bottom portion 234, as will be described below with respect to FIG. Figure 13a -c further describes in detail.

[0255] like Figure 11b -d, the latch system 240 further includes a locking member 246 for locking and / or unlocking the latch 242. Figure 11b , the latch 242 is unlocked and positioned on the second side of the unit 200. Figure 11c , the latch 242 pivots into the bottom cutout 239 of the rear portion 238 of the bottom portion 234 of the base structure 224. The latch 242 can be coupled to the locking member 246 and locked in the retracted position. Alternatively, the latch 242 can remain unlocked and slide to the first side of the unit 200. Figure 11d , the latch pivots out of the bottom cutout 239 on the first side of the unit 200.

[0256] Expand / telescope

[0257] The unit 200 is convertible between an expanded state and a telescoping state, similar to the first exemplary embodiment. In the expanded state, the frame structure 201 provides a rigid framework for supporting the enclosure material 250 and the webbing and tie-down structure 270 and defining the interior / exterior aspects of the unit 200. In the telescoping state, the frame structure 201, the enclosure material 250, and the webbing and tie-down structure 270 are folded into the base structure 120, are substantially flush with the base structure, or are adjacent to the base structure to provide a slim configuration for easy portability.

[0258] When the unit 200 is deployed for transporting an animal in a vehicle, the pull rod 204 rigidly extends from a front swivel joint 216 of the front member 202 to a rear swivel joint 217 of the rear member 203. The front swivel joint 216 is oriented perpendicularly to the front member 202 to direct the front intermediate support member 205 rearward. The rear intermediate support member 207 is received in the rear swivel joint 217, which is oriented forward and perpendicular to the rear member 203. When the ends 206a, 206b of the front intermediate support member 205 or the first and second ends 208a, 208b of the rear intermediate support member 207 are separated from the front swivel joint 216 and the rear swivel joint 217, for example, to telescope the unit 200, the front swivel joint 216 can be rotated 90 degrees and oriented toward the bottom of the unit 200, and / or the rear swivel joint 217 can be rotated 90 degrees and oriented toward the bottom of the unit 200. If the tie rod 204 remains connected, rotation of the rear rotational joint 217 will cause the tie rod 204 to be located within, substantially flush with, or adjacent to the component to which it is connected, such as the front component 202 or the rear component 203. Alternatively, the tie rod 204 can be detached and completely removed from both the front component 202 and the rear component 203.

[0259] The front rotary actuator 220 can then be rotated 90 degrees and oriented toward the rear so that the front component 202 is received within, substantially flush with, or adjacent to the base structure 224, whereupon the rear rotary actuator 221 can be rotated 90 degrees and oriented toward the front so that the rear component 203 is substantially flush with or adjacent to the telescoping front component 202. As described above, the rear component 203 is slightly shorter than the front component 202, and the rear rotary actuator 221 is raised relative to the front rotary actuator 220 so that when the unit 200 is telescoping, the rear component 203 fits tightly against and / or fits tightly within the telescoping front component 202. The front rotary actuator 220 and the rear rotary actuator 221 can be locked in any of the positions described above, for example, oriented so that the front component 202 extends toward the top of the unit 200 and defines the front surface of the unit 200, and the rear component 203 extends toward the top of the unit 200 and defines the rear surface of the unit 200 (deployed state), or oriented so that the front component 202 extends toward the rear of the unit 200 and the rear component 203 extends toward the front of the unit 200 (telescoping state). Thus, the frame structure 201 can be locked in the deployed state to provide a rigid frame defining the interior / exterior of the unit 200, and the frame structure 201 can be locked in the telescoping state to facilitate transportation and / or storage of the unit 200.

[0260] FIG12 illustrates a second exemplary embodiment of a unit 200 transitioning from an expanded state to a telescoping state. In 260, the unit 200 is in the expanded state. The tie rod 204 is connected to the front member 202 and the rear member 203, forming a rigid connection between the members. To disengage the tie rod 204, the end 206 of the front intermediate support member 205 of the tie rod 204 is disengaged from the front member 202. Alternatively, the end 208 of the rear intermediate support member 207 can be disengaged from the rear member 203. In 261, the front member 202 is telescoped toward the base structure 224 via the front rotary actuator 220. In 262, the front member 202 is stored substantially flush with the base structure 224, while in 263, the tie rod 204 is telescoped toward the rear member 203 via the rear rotary joint 217. In 264, the tie rod 204 is folded beneath the rear member 203. Finally, at 265, the rear member 203 is telescoped toward the base structure 224 via the rear rotary actuator 221. At 266, the rear member 203 is stored substantially flush with the base structure 224.

[0261] Webbing and tie-downs

[0262] Unit 200 is reinforced with webbing 271 and a tie-down structure 270, which provide additional reinforcement when installed in a vehicle. Webbing 271 extends across the bottom, front, and top of unit 200 to absorb forces that may be applied to unit 200 in a car crash (e.g., if an animal inside is thrown against the inside of the unit). Tie-downs 280 on the top / rear of unit 200 are configured to secure to an anchor point in the vehicle. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that any known connector for connecting to a vehicle anchor point can be used for any of the connections described with respect to the exemplary embodiments. These features, combined with latches 242 rigidly mounted to the base structure 224 of unit 200, provide a continuous protective ring around unit 200 (e.g., 360-degree support). Alternatively, for any of the embodiments described herein, the protective ring may extend only approximately 270 degrees, as the back of the seat on which unit 200 is mounted provides protection against an animal being thrown backward.

[0263] Figure 13a The webbing and tie-down structure 270 of the unit 200 of the second exemplary embodiment is shown assembled with the frame structure 201 and the base structure 224. The webbing 271 includes a first span 271a and a second span 271b that extend from rear bracket attachment points 272 (first rear bracket attachment point 272a and second rear bracket attachment point 272b) in the latch system 240 of the base structure 224 to a rear frame attachment point 278 on the tie rod 204 or the rear member 203 of the frame structure 201. Each of the first span 271a and the second span 271b includes a bottom portion 273 that extends through the bottom portion 234 of the base structure 224 around the bottom 226 of the top portion 225. The webbing 271 continues to the wrap 274, where it wraps around the top portion 225 of the base structure 224 and continues into the front portion 275.

[0264] The webbing 271 is then wrapped 276 around the front member 202 of the frame structure 201. The webbing 271 continues to a top portion 277, and the first span 271a and the second span 271b are joined at a rear frame attachment point 278, which can be located on the tie rod 204 or the rear member 203. In one aspect, the rear frame attachment point 272 can be defined by a bracket 244 of the latch system 240. The bracket 244 can be rigidly fixed to the base structure 224 so that when the latch 242 is connected to an anchor structure in the vehicle, a rigid, continuous loop is formed that extends from the anchor structure in the vehicle to one end of the webbing 271.

[0265] The frame structure 201 further supports a tie 280 secured to the tie rod 204 or the rear member 203. The tie 280 can extend from the top / rear of the unit 200 and attach to an anchor structure in the vehicle (e.g., on the back of a seat). In one aspect, one end of the tie 280 can be directly connected to the webbing 271, and the other end of the tie 280 can be configured to attach to an anchor structure in the vehicle.

[0266] Figure 13b A diagram shows unit 200 of the second exemplary embodiment installed in a vehicle. As shown, latch 242 is connected to the car's steel frame at its latch end 243. A connector 281 at the end of tie 280 wraps from rear member 203 of frame structure 201 to an anchor point on the back of the seat. This completes the protective loop of tie 280, running from latch 242 through webbing 271 and finally through an anchor attached to the back of the seat.

[0267] Figure 13c Unit 200 is shown deflected under the forces of an automobile crash. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the deformation of unit 200 will be substantially similar to the deformation of unit 100 when subjected to similar forces. Figure 13c As seen in FIG, in the initial state, a side view of unit 200 appears to have a generally square cross-section, with frame structure 201 and webbing 271 extending along generally similar paths over the front and top surface of unit 200. Following impact, the animal is thrown forward, impacting webbing 271 and pushing it forward out of alignment with frame structure 201. Simultaneously, as webbing 271 moves forward beyond the front of frame structure 201 (i.e., webbing stretch is minimized), webbing 271 pushes the front of frame structure 201 rearward, while the base remains in the same position as it was connected to the anchor point. Thus, in this position, the top of frame structure 201 is farther rearward and slightly lower, while the sides of frame structure 201 have rotated (counterclockwise in this view) to accommodate the movement of the top of frame structure 201.

[0268] Figure 14 The installation of the unit 200 in a vehicle is shown. At 285, the unit 200 is telescoped so that it can fit through the vehicle door. At 286, the latch is pivoted to the deployed position and attached to the vehicle's steel frame. At 287, the unit 200 is deployed. At 288, the unit 200 is fully deployed.

[0269] Third embodiment

[0270] Figure 15a-b shows a view of an animal enclosure unit 300 according to a third exemplary embodiment. Similar to the unit 200 of the second exemplary embodiment described above, the unit 300 of the third exemplary embodiment generally has six sides (although any other arrangement that provides the desired space for enclosing an animal may be used) and is described with respect to the front, back, first side (e.g., left side, relative to the front view), second side (e.g., right side, relative to the front view), bottom, and top. These sides are shown in FIG. Figure 15a -b and omitted in subsequent figures.

[0271] The unit 300 of the third exemplary embodiment has certain features similar to the unit 200 described with respect to the second exemplary embodiment, including certain aspects of the frame structure, base structure, latching system, enclosure material, and webbing and tie-down structure. However, the unit 300 of the third exemplary embodiment includes certain actuation mechanisms that differ from those of the second exemplary embodiment, as will be described in detail below. It should be noted that the enclosure material and webbing and tie-down structure of the third exemplary embodiment may be arranged similarly to those of the second exemplary embodiment, and in Figure 15a Not shown in -b. Figure 15a A perspective view of the display unit 300; Figure 15b Bottom view of display unit 300.

[0272] The unit 300 includes a frame structure 301 coupled to and supported by a base structure 320. The frame structure 301 includes a front member 302, a rear member 303, and at least one intermediate member (e.g., an X-shaped rod 304) that connects the front member 302 and the rear member 303 when the unit 300 is in the deployed state, as will be described below with respect to Figure 16 The front and rear components 302 and 303 of the third exemplary embodiment can be shaped similarly to the front and rear components 202 and 203 of the second exemplary embodiment. In this example, the front component 302 further includes a recess (e.g., a slot) for receiving a pin 310 of an X-shaped rod 304 to attach the X-shaped rod 304 to the front component 302, as will be described below.

[0273] The X-shaped rod 304 includes a front portion 305, a middle portion 306, and a rear portion 307. The front portion 305 of this embodiment is attached to the front member 302 of the frame structure 301, and extends in two lengths toward the rear / middle and joins at the middle portion 306, and also extends in two lengths from the middle portion 306 to the rear portion 307 for attachment to the rear member 303 of the frame structure 301, thereby forming a shape similar to an X.

[0274] The X-shaped rod 304 can be removed from either or both of the front member 302 and / or rear member 303 in a manner similar to the pull rod 204 of the unit 200 of the second exemplary embodiment. In this example, the X-shaped rod 304 is removable from the front member 302. The X-shaped rod 304 can be removed from the front member 302 via an X-shaped rod release actuator 309. Alternatively or in addition, a joint can be formed at the middle portion 306 of the X-shaped rod 304 at the intersection between the front portion 305 and the rear portion 307, so that the first portion 305 can be hingedly connected or pivoted relative to the rear portion 307, which remains connected thereto.

[0275] Figure 16 The third exemplary embodiment shows an X-bar 304 of the frame structure 301 of the unit 300. The X-bar 304 includes two pins 308 (one pin 308 at the forward end of each length of the front portion 305 of the X-bar 304) that are translatable (e.g., extendable and retractable) relative to the front portion 305 of the X-bar 304. The pins 308 are connected to an X-bar release actuator 309 via corresponding cables running through the front portion 305. The X-bar release actuator 309 includes a plunger that can be pressed into and / or withdrawn from the middle portion 306 of the X-bar 304 by a user. To attach the X-bar 304 to the front member 302, the X-bar release actuator 309 can be withdrawn from the middle portion 306, thereby pushing the cables outward (toward the front member 302) and into a recess in the front member 302. To release the X-bar 304 from the front member 302, the X-bar release actuator 309 is pressed into the middle portion 306, thereby pulling the cable inward (away from the front member 302) and retracting the pin 308 from the notch in the front member 302. When the X-bar 304 is released, the unit 300 can be folded down to the telescoping state in a manner similar to that described above for the unit 200 of the second exemplary embodiment.

[0276] Unit 300 further includes a base structure 320. Similar to base structure 224 of the second exemplary embodiment, base structure 320 of the third exemplary embodiment includes a top portion and a bottom portion that can be molded, for example, from plastic and nested together. Located in the rear portion of the bottom portion is a cutout portion that contains a latch system 330 of the third exemplary embodiment.

[0277] The latch system 330 of the third exemplary embodiment includes a pivoting rigid latch 332 slidably mounted to a bar 331 including two brackets 336 secured around the bar 331, similar to the latch system 240 of the unit 200 of the second exemplary embodiment. The latch 332 is slidable along the bar 331 between a first position on a first side of the unit 300 and a second position on a second side of the unit 300. The latch 332 includes a latch end 333 configured to attach to an anchor point in a vehicle in a known manner. The latch system 330 of the third exemplary embodiment includes a latch release actuator 340 for releasing the latch 332 from the vehicle anchor point, a first latch release actuator 342 for allowing the latch 332 to rotate into an extended position (e.g., a use position), and a second latch release actuator 344 for allowing the latch 332 to rotate into a retracted position (e.g., a storage position).

[0278] Figure 17a -c shows a latch system 330 on the bottom of the unit 300 of the third exemplary embodiment, which includes a latch release actuator 340, a first latch unlock actuator 342, and a second latch unlock actuator 344. Figure 17a shows the arrangement of the latch release actuator 340; Figure 17b The arrangement of the first latch unlocking actuator 342 is shown; Figure 17c The arrangement of the second latch unlock actuator 344 is shown.

[0279] like Figure 17a As shown, the latch release actuator 340 is connected to three actuator protrusions 341 adjacent to the bar 331 at a location along the base structure 320, where the latch 332 may extend, for example, adjacent to the bracket 336. The actuator protrusions 341 of this embodiment are connected to the latch release actuator 340, for example, via cables, so that actuating the latch release actuator 340 (e.g., pulling the latch release actuator 340 toward the front of the unit 300) causes the actuator protrusions 341 to translate toward the front of the unit 300.

[0280] Each of the latches 332 includes one or more actuator slots 334 that can be coupled to the actuator protrusions 341 when the latch 332 is in the extended position. For example, when the latch 332 is in a first position on a first side of the unit, the actuator protrusions 341 on the first side are received in the actuator slots 334 of the latch 332 on the first side, and the middle actuator protrusion 341 is received middle-wise in the actuator slot 334 of the latch 332; and when the latch 332 is in a second position on a second side of the unit, the actuator protrusions 341 on the second side are received in the actuator slots 334 of the latch 332 on the second side, and the middle actuator protrusion 341 is received middle-wise in the actuator slot 334 of the latch 332. When the latch release actuator 340 is actuated, movement of the actuator protrusion 341 within the actuator slot 334 releases the latch 332 (e.g., its latch end 333) from its anchor point within the vehicle. Accordingly, the latch release actuator 340 can release the latch 332 when the latch 332 is in any position (e.g., the first position or the second position).

[0281] like Figure 17b As shown, the first latch unlock actuator 342 is connected to a protrusion 343 that can be connected to any one of the latches 332 (e.g., the latch end 333 thereof) to hold the latch 332 in the retracted (stored) position. The first latch unlock actuator 342 can be actuated (e.g., slid or pulled) to retract the protrusion 343 and unlock the latch 332 so that the latch 332 is free to rotate into the extended (use) position.

[0282] like Figure 17c As shown, the second latch unlocking actuator 344 is connected to a pin 345 that can be received in a pin receiving hole 335 of either latch 332 when the latch 332 is in the extended (use) position. When the pin 345 is received in the pin receiving hole 335, the latch 332 is locked in the extended position. Both latches 332 include a pin receiving hole 335, so only one pin 345 is required to lock the latch 332. The second latch unlocking actuator 344 can be actuated (e.g., slid or pulled) to retract the pin 345 from the pin receiving hole 335 of the latch 332, thereby allowing the latch 332 to rotate freely, for example, to transition the latch 332 to the retracted position.

[0283] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that changes may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the inventive concepts of the above-described embodiments. It should be further understood that structural features and methods associated with one embodiment may be incorporated into other embodiments. Therefore, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications are, in fact, within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0284] Fourth exemplary embodiment

[0285] Figure 18a -c, 19 show views of an animal enclosure unit 400 according to a fourth exemplary embodiment. Similar to the unit 300 of the third exemplary embodiment described above, the unit 400 of the fourth exemplary embodiment generally has six sides (although any other arrangement that provides the desired space for enclosing an animal may be used) and is described with respect to the front, back, first side (e.g., left side, relative to the front view), second side (e.g., right side, relative to the front view), bottom, and top. These sides are shown in FIG. Figure 18a -c and omitted in subsequent figures.

[0286] Unit 400 of the fourth exemplary embodiment includes several alternative embodiments for various features of animal containment units 100, 200, and 300. Unit 400 has certain features similar to unit 300 described for the third exemplary embodiment, including certain aspects of the frame structure, base structure, latching system, containment material, and webbing and tie-down structures. The alternative embodiments described for the fourth exemplary embodiment can be implemented using unit 300 or other types of animal containment units, and the various features described for unit 400 can be interchanged between embodiments in any suitable manner or implemented in other designs of animal containment units, and the present invention is not limited to the specific arrangement described for unit 400 of the fourth exemplary embodiment. Figure 18a A perspective view of the display unit 400; Figure 18b A side view of the display unit 400; Figure 18c A top view of the display unit 400; Figure 19 A view of the display unit 400 with the enclosure material 406 removed showing the first body panel 407 and the second body panel 408 that define the inflated shape of the unit 400 .

[0287] Unit 400 includes a frame structure 401 coupled to and supported by a base structure 405. Frame structure 401 includes a front member 402, a rear member 403, and an X-shaped rod 404 that connects front member 402 and rear member 403 when unit 400 is in the deployed state. The front member 402 and rear member 403 of the fourth exemplary embodiment may be shaped similarly to the front member 302 and rear member 303, respectively, of the third exemplary embodiment. X-shaped rod 404 may also be shaped similarly to X-shaped rod 304 described above for the third exemplary embodiment. The exemplary embodiment includes modifications to the attachment / release actuation of X-shaped rod 404, which will be described below. Unit 400 includes enclosure material 406 supported by frame structure 401, the exterior of which has an inflated shape configured to accommodate an animal, as described above.

[0288] The first body panel 407 surrounds the front member 402 on its front side, and the second body panel 408 surrounds the rear member 403 on its rear side. The first body panel 407 and the second body panel 408 have rounded shapes, but different spatial arrangements are also possible. The first body panel 407 and the second body panel 408 are designed so that the X-shaped rod 404 can be properly attached to the front member 402 and the rear member 403.

[0289] As mentioned in one or more of the previously disclosed embodiments, the enclosure 406 positioned around the frame structure 401 can define the exterior and / or interior of the unit 400. The enclosure 406 includes one or more of the front 482, first side 484, second side 486, top 488, and rear 490 of the unit 400. In one embodiment, the front 482, first side 484, second side 486, top 488, and rear 490 are integrally formed as a single unit, thereby making installation and removal of the enclosure 406 by a user more efficient.

[0290] As previously described, one or more of the enclosure materials 406 (e.g., front portion 482) may, for example, include a window through which an animal positioned within the interior of unit 400 can view the exterior of unit 400, and through which an owner can view the interior of unit 400. Alternatively or in addition, one or more of the enclosure materials may include a material having openings formed therein, such as a mesh structure or a screen, that, for example, provides visibility into the interior of unit 400. One or more of the enclosure materials 406 may include an opening 494 for accessing the interior of unit 400, for example, to place an animal therein or remove the animal therefrom. A door 496 may be movable relative to unit 400 to selectively seal or block a portion of opening 494, thereby retaining the animal within the interior of unit 400. In one embodiment, door 496 is integrally formed with a corresponding portion of enclosure material 406. In such embodiments, door 496 may pivot to selectively expose and seal opening 494. For example, the side 484 can include a door 496, and the door 496 can be zipped relative to an adjacent portion of the side 484 to selectively seal the opening 494. In other embodiments, the door 496 can be separate from the unit 400.

[0291] In some embodiments, additional soft objects may be connected to the unit 400 to protect the animals therein in the event of a crash or impact. In the non-limiting embodiment of Figures 32A and 32B, a shock absorbing pad 500, for example, formed of thick foam or other cushioning material, may be removably mounted around the unit 400. As shown, the shock absorbing pad 500 may be mounted around the opening 494. In these embodiments, the size and shape of the shock absorbing pad 500 may complement the door 496 and / or the opening 494. In one embodiment, the shock absorbing pad 500 is connected to the door 496 itself and therefore may move relative to the unit 400 with the door 496. In other embodiments, the shock absorbing pad 500 may be directly connected to the containment material 406, for example, around the opening 494. The shock absorbing pad 500 may be removably connected to the containment material or the door 496 via any suitable connection mechanism, such as, but not limited to, magnets, hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro). TM In one embodiment, the first portion of the connecting mechanism can be disposed around the edge of the impact-absorbing pad 500 or around the perimeter of the impact-absorbing pad, and the second portion of the connecting mechanism can be disposed around the perimeter of the door 496 or around the edge of the surrounding material defining the opening 494.

[0292] As an alternative to or in addition to the impact-absorbing pad 500, a safety net 510 can be attached to the unit 400, for example, adjacent to the opening 494 or door 496. The safety net 510 can be formed via one or more sections of webbing 512. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment shown in Figures 33A and 33B, the webbing 512 of the safety net 510 includes a first transverse span 514a and a second transverse span 514b, which can extend generally between the front member 402 and / or the first body panel 407 and the rear member 403 and / or the second body panel 408. Although the first span 514a and the second span 514b are shown as being vertically offset and parallel to each other, embodiments in which the first span 514a and the second span 514b are arranged at another angle are also within the scope of the present invention. The webbing 512 can further include a fork member 516 connected to some or each of the one or more spans 514. As shown, the at least one fork member 516 can be oriented generally perpendicular to the first span 514a and the second span 514b. In combination, the one or more spans 514 and the one or more fork members 516 of the webbing 512 cooperate to sufficiently block the opening 494, thereby preventing an animal from being thrown from the unit 400 through the opening 494.

[0293] Safety net 510 can be removably connected to unit 400 to allow animals to enter or exit the interior of unit 400 as needed. Safety net 510 can be connected to unit 400 in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, safety net 510 can be attached to unit 400 via at least one quick-disconnect mechanism 520. As shown, quick-disconnect mechanism 520 can include one or more hooks, shackles, or hooks 522 disposed at the ends of transverse spans 514a, 514b. Quick-disconnect mechanism 520 can also include a plurality of connectors 524, such as D-rings, which are attached to or integral with unit 400, for example. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, connectors 524 are rigidly mounted or attached to frame structure 401. Some connectors 524 (e.g., the lower two in the exemplary embodiment) can alternatively be connected to base structure 405. It should be understood that impact-absorbing pad 500 and safety net 510, as shown and described, can be adapted for use with any embodiment of the animal containment unit disclosed herein.

[0294] The latch system for unit 400 is similar to the latch system of unit 300 of the third exemplary embodiment, except that the latch system of unit 400 includes an auxiliary latch release mechanism. In some animal containment units, when the latches are connected to the vehicle seat, they are typically released by an actuator accessible from the front of the containment unit. In some animal containment units, when the latches are not locked in the appropriate position (e.g., the rotated position), the actuator on the front of the unit cannot release the latches from the vehicle.

[0295] Figure 20a -b Auxiliary latch release mechanism of display unit 400. Figure 20a A rigid latch 409 is shown including an auxiliary latch release 410 having dual indicators, such as colored sections indicating red or green (for attachment / release). Latch 409 includes an indicator window 411 for viewing the indicators through latch 409. The auxiliary latch release 410 is configured to release the corresponding latch 409 from a support structure in the vehicle. The auxiliary latch release 410 may be included on each rigid latch 409 as a secondary release mechanism. The primary release mechanism includes a latch release actuator, such as latch release actuator 340 shown on unit 300. It should be understood that unit 400 may include either or both latch release actuator 340 and auxiliary latch release 410. The auxiliary latch release 410 may provide a user with another way to release latch 409 from a support structure in the vehicle. For example, if the latch release actuator 340 fails to release the latch 409 , the user may use the auxiliary latch release 410 to release the latch 409 .

[0296] Figure 20bAn insert 412 is shown, which ensures that the latch 409 is fixed in the connected position. The connected position is the desired position of the latch 409 when the unit 400 is connected to the support structure of the vehicle. As shown, the latch 409 rotates to the connected position and is fixed in place by the insert 412. The insert 412 may include an inclined surface, a beveled surface, or other angled surface. As the latch 409 rotates to the connected position, contact between the latch 409 and the angled surface of the insert 412 causes the insert 412 to translate toward the unlocked position. After the latch 409 is in the connected position, the insert 412 can translate toward the locked position, thereby fixing the latch 409 in the connected position. In one aspect, the insert 412 is biased toward the locked position. In order to release the latch 409 from the connected position, a position release actuator 413 can be actuated. When the position release actuator 413 is actuated, the insert 412 transitions from the locked position to the unlocked position, thereby allowing the latch 409 to rotate out of the connected position.

[0297] Additionally, the latch 409 can protrude from the base 405 at an angle other than directly rearward (relative to, for example, the base 405 of the unit 400), as described in previous embodiments. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a steeper latch angle can facilitate latching of the unit 400 despite variations in vehicle latch and seat angles, and can help the unit 400 remain level in the vehicle despite variations in seat geometry.

[0298] Figure 21a -b shows the steeper latch angle of unit 400. Figure 21a A side view of the latch 409 is shown extending at an angle from the base 405 . Figure 21b The angle of the unit 400 is shown installed in an exemplary vehicle.

[0299] The X-bar 404 can be designed to improve crash dynamics and improve customer setup. The X-bar 404 includes an actuator 413 to release the X-bar 404 from the front member 402 or the rear member 403, for example to telescope the unit, as described in the previous embodiments above.

[0300] Figure 22a -e shows an actuator 413 configured to release an X-shaped rod 404 from the frame structure 401 (e.g., the front member 402 and / or the rear member 403). The X-shaped rod 404 of this embodiment includes a release actuator 413 on one or both members. In this example, the actuator 413 is attached to the first portion 414 of the X-shaped rod 404 attached to the frame structure 401, rather than the middle portion 415 of the rod. Figure 22a -b shows a view of an X-shaped rod 404 comprising an actuator 413 comprising two pins 416 configured to be received in corresponding shaped holes 418 on the ends 417 of the middle portion 415 of the X-shaped rod 404 . Figure 22c The end 417 of the middle portion 415 of the X-shaped rod 404 is shown separated from the actuator 413 and the first portion 414 of the X-shaped rod 404 is attached to the frame structure 401 . Figure 22d The end 417 of the middle portion 415 of the X-shaped rod 404 is shown attached to the frame structure 401 via a pin 416 . Figure 22e The ramped surface 419 of the pin 416 is shown for automatic locking with the hole 418 on the end 417 .

[0301] Additional features are added to unit 400 to improve its portability and enhance the user experience.

[0302] Figure 23a -b shows a flexible fold lock 420 secured to the base 405 of the unit 400 and attachable to a portion of the enclosure material 406 when the unit 400 is telescoping. Figure 23a The locking member 420 is shown attached to the enclosure material 406. The locking member 420 is rotatably secured to the base 405 via a pin. The locking member 420 may be made of Hytrel 4069. Figure 23b The lock 420 is shown detached from the enclosure material 406 and in a storage position ready for use when not in use.

[0303] Figure 23c -e shows another aspect: a flexible folding lock 420' is secured to a portion of the enclosure material 406 and can be attached to the base 405 of the unit 400 when the unit 400 is telescoping. The lock 420' includes a protrusion 431' that connects with a corresponding recess 433' located on the base 405. The protrusion 431' can be positioned within the recess 433' to lock the unit 400 in the storage position.

[0304] Figure 23f -g shows another aspect: a flexible folding lock 420" is secured to a portion of the containment material 406 and can be attached to the base 405 of the unit 400 when the unit 400 is telescoping. The lock 420" can include a recess 433", and the base 405 can include a corresponding protrusion 431". The protrusion 431' can be positioned within the recess 433' to lock the unit 400 in the storage position.

[0305] Figure 23h -j shows another aspect: a flexible folding lock 420'' is secured to a portion of the enclosure material 406 and can be attached to the base 405 of the unit 400 when the unit 400 is telescoping. The lock 420'' includes a protrusion 431'' that connects with a corresponding notch or recess 433'' located on the base 405.

[0306] Figure 24a-b shows a handle 421 on the front of the unit 400 for carrying the unit 400. The handle 421 may be attached to the base 405 or the enclosure 406. The handle 421 may be part of the unit 400's webbing and tie-down system.

[0307] Figure 25a -b shows the feet 422 on the base 405 that allow the unit 400 to stand upright.

[0308] Figure 24c -d shows the handle 421 connected to the front portion of the base 405. The ends of the handle 421 can extend through the first and second openings 435 and 437 defined by the base 405 and into the interior of the base 405. The gripping portion 436 of the handle 421 is positioned on the exterior of the base 405 for a user to grip. Each respective end of the handle 421 can connect with a respective boss 438 and 440 on the interior of the base 405 to secure the handle 421 to the base 405.

[0309] In some animal containment units, the containment material is difficult to replace. Therefore, additional features are added to unit 400 to facilitate the removal and replacement of containment material 406. Furthermore, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the removability of containment material 406 also allows the user to remove containment material 406 for cleaning and then replace the containment material 406 on unit 400.

[0310] Figure 26a -c shows the progression of steps for removing the containment material 406 from the unit 400. Figure 26a The display enclosure 406 (with the frame structure 401 underneath) and the top portion 423 of the base 405 are raised from the bottom portion 424 of the base 405. Figure 26b A display board 425 (eg, formed of polyethylene (PE)) wherein holes on the bottom edge of the enclosure material 406 are decoupled from the top portion 423 of the base 405 . Figure 26c The display enclosure material 406 rises from the frame structure 401 and the top portion 423 of the base 405.

[0311] Figure 27a -b shows details for removing the enclosure material 406 from the unit 400. Figure 27a A bottom view of the base 405 (bottom portion 424) is shown. The bottom portion 424 of the base 405 includes several screws, for example, eight screws, for attaching to the top portion 423. The user can remove these eight screws and lift the top portion 423, the frame structure 401, and the enclosure material 406 from the bottom portion 424. Figure 27bA view showing the top portion 423 of the base 405, the frame structure 401, and the enclosure material 406 being raised from the bottom portion 424. The user can then disconnect the webbing and tie-down structure 426 from the bottom portion 424. The bottom portion 424 can include a PE sheet 427 to cover the components in the bottom portion 424.

[0312] exist Figure 27b In a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the webbing and tie structure includes a webbing having two tie bolts or spans (e.g., a first tie bolt 426a and a second tie bolt 426b) extending from a front attachment point 530, for example, at the bottom portion 424. In some embodiments, for example Figure 34a and 35a As shown in FIG. 4 , one or more fork-shaped members 532 extend between and connect to the first and second tie bolts 426a and 426b.

[0313] Figures 29-30 Tie guides 470 and 472 are shown connected to frame structure 401. In one aspect, tie guides 470 and 472 are connected to a top portion of front member 402. Tie guides 470 and 472 can receive tie 426 to align tie 426 on unit 400 and hold tie 426 in place. Tie guides 470 and 472 can also help reduce loads on front member 402 when outward forces are applied to the front of unit 400, such as during a crash. Accordingly, each of first tie 426a and second tie 426b can extend from base 405, wrap around front portion 482 of enclosure material 406, pass through tie guides 470 and 472, and connect to tie disconnect 450. In some embodiments, first and second tethers 426a, 426b are integrally formed from a single length of webbing, such that a handle, such as handle 421, is formed from tether 426 adjacent to the top of unit 400. In other embodiments, the distal ends of tethers 426a, 426b may be connected via a tether disconnect 450.

[0314] Figure 28a -c and Figure 34aFigure 2-b shows a tie-down disconnect 450 connected between a tie 426 and a vehicle seat 451. The tie-down disconnect 450 may include a first connector 452, a second connector 454, a first tie portion 456, and a second tie portion 458. The first and second connectors 452, 454 may be connected to the ends of the first tie portion 456. The first and second connectors 452, 454 may be removably connected to corresponding first and second connectors 460, 462 connected to the ends of the tie 426. The removable connection between the tie-down disconnect 450 and the tie 426 allows the user to quickly disconnect the unit 400 from the vehicle seat 451. The first and second connectors 452, 454 of the tie-down disconnect 450 and the first and second connectors 460, 462 of the tie 426 may include, for example, buckles, side-release latches, snap clamps, bolt-on buckles, carabiners, or other types of connectors to quickly and securely attach the tie 426 to the tie-down disconnect 450.

[0315] See now Figure 36 and 37 , illustrates examples of connectors 452, 454 of a tie disconnect 450. Also shown are connectors 460, 462 of a tie 426 configured to couple to respective connectors 452, 454. Connectors 452, 454 can include a housing 540 to which one end of a first tie portion 456 of the tie connector 450 can be coupled. A locking tab 542 can be included adjacent to and protruding beyond an end 544 of the housing 540, such as opposite an end 546 that receives the first tie portion 456 of the tie connector 450. In one embodiment, an opening or recess 548 is formed in a portion of the locking tab 542 that is external to the housing 540.

[0316] The connectors 460, 462 of the tie 426 may similarly include a housing 550 to which one end of the tie 426 is connected. In one embodiment, the housing 550 includes an opening 552 extending inwardly from an end 554 of the housing 550, for example, opposite the end receiving the tie 426. The opening 552 may be sized to allow the locking tab 542 to be inserted therein. For example, an engagement member 556 disposed within the housing 550 may be received within the opening 552 formed in the locking tab 542 to couple the locking tab 542 to the housing 550. The engagement member 556 may be resilient or operatively coupled to a biasing member 558 such that the engagement member 556 is movable to selectively engage the opening 552 of the locking tab 542. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the engagement member 556 protrudes at an angle toward the area within which the locking tab 542 is received. Accordingly, as the locking tab 542 is inserted into the housing 550, the locking tab 542 contacts the engagement member 556 and applies a force to the engagement member against its bias. Consequently, the engagement member 556 is deflected away from the path of travel of the locking tab 542, or away from the path of travel. Once the locking tab 542 reaches a position where the opening 548 is aligned with the engagement member 556, the force resisting the bias of the engagement member 556 is removed. Consequently, the engagement member 556 is biased back to its original position, and the engagement between the engagement member 556 and the opening 548 restricts the locking tab 542 from moving away from the connectors 460, 462.

[0317] Connector 460,462 may additionally include an actuator 560, such as a button, which is, for example, operable to selectively resist the biasing of the engaging member 556 so that the connectors 452,454 are disconnected. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the actuator 560 can be moved in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the latch tongue 542. This movement allows the latch interface to have a more compact configuration. However, embodiments in which the actuator 560 can move in another way or direction (such as wherein the actuator is rotatable) are also within the scope of the present invention. The operator can operate the actuator 560, which in turn moves the engaging member 556 so that it is disengaged from the latch tongue 542. In this position, the latch tongue 542 is freely movable and therefore can be separated or disconnected from the connector 460,462. It should be understood that the interfaces between connectors 452 , 454 and connectors 460 , 462 shown and described herein are intended as examples only, and that any removably couplable interface is contemplated herein.

[0318] The first tie portion 456 can be slidably connected to the second tie portion 458. The slidable connection between the first and second tie portions 456 and 458 allows the tie disconnect 450 to "self-center" when the tie disconnect 450 connects the unit 400 to the vehicle seat 451. For example, referring to Figure 28b and 28c When the tie-down link 450 is connected to the vehicle seat 451 along an axis offset from the central axis of the unit 400 , the slidable connection allows the first tie portion 456 to move relative to the second tie portion 458 to a position to maintain a taut connection between the first tie portion 456 and the tie 426 .

[0319] When tie disconnect 450 is disconnected from tie 426, tie disconnect 450 can remain in the vehicle when unit 400 is removed from the vehicle. During installation, unit 400 can be placed on vehicle seat 451, latch 409 can be connected to the vehicle support structure, and tie disconnect 450 can be connected to tie 426. Tie disconnect 450 facilitates installation by not requiring the user to directly connect tie 426 to vehicle seat 451 each time unit 400 is installed in a vehicle. In one aspect, when first and second connectors 460, 462 on the ends of tie 426 are disconnected from tie disconnect 450, first and second connectors 460, 462 can be connected to corresponding connectors (not shown) on enclosure 406. The connection of connectors 460 and 462 to enclosure 406 prevents the tie from moving around during transport outside the vehicle and can help prevent potential strangulation issues.

[0320] Figure 29 and 31 Stepped members 476 and 478 are shown positioned on base 405. Stepped members 476 and 478 can be formed as part of base 405 or can be connected and secured to base 405. Stepped members 476 and 478 can trim enclosure material 406 to form first and second sides of unit 400. Stepped members 476 and 478 can also hold side door flaps (not shown) of enclosure material 406 in place and provide support for the exterior walls of base 405.

[0321] The term "about" is intended to encompass the degree of error associated with the measurement of the particular quantity based on the equipment available at the time the application was filed.

[0322] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit the present invention. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well. It will be further understood that the term "comprising" when used in this specification specifies the presence of stated features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0323] Although the present invention has been described with reference to one or more exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention. Additionally, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present invention without departing from the basic scope of the present invention. Therefore, it is intended that the present invention not be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out the present invention, but that the present invention encompass all embodiments within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A unit for enclosing an animal on a seat in a vehicle, comprising: a base structure comprising a base comprising a front portion and a rear portion; The framework structure includes: a front member coupled to the front portion of the base; a rear member coupled to the rear portion of the base; as well as enclosure material extending at least partially around the frame structure; as well as a webbing structure comprising at least a first span and a second span of webbing, each of the spans including a first end coupled to a respective first anchor point defined by the base structure, the spans extending from the respective first anchor point around an exterior of the frame structure and around the front member to a respective second end of the span, the second end of each of the spans being configured to couple to a rigid connector on or near the seat of the vehicle such that the webbing extends along a desired path around the frame structure and is configured to restrain a pet enclosed within the unit.

2. A unit according to claim 1, wherein the front component includes a first end connected to the front portion of the base on a first side and a second end connected to the front portion of the base on a second side, the front component of the frame structure is shaped into a curve to partially define the front of the unit and partially define the top of the unit, and the rear component includes a first end connected to the rear portion of the base on the first side and a second end connected to the rear portion of the base on the second side, the rear component of the frame structure is shaped into a curve to partially define the rear of the unit and partially define the top of the unit, wherein the span extends along the top portion of the enclosure material covering the top of the unit to the second end connected to a second anchor point.

3. The unit of claim 1 , wherein the base structure further comprises a base frame mounted to the base, and wherein the base frame comprises a front member, and wherein the first end of the span of webbing is coupled to the front member of the base frame inside the base.

4. The unit of claim 3, wherein the first end of the span of webbing is sewn to the front member of the base frame.

5. A unit according to claim 3, wherein the enclosure material includes a front enclosure material that partially defines the front of the unit and is at least partially supported by the front member of the frame structure, the front portion of the enclosure material covers the front of the unit, the front portion of the enclosure material includes an outer surface and an inner surface, and the unit further includes a top portion of the enclosure material that covers the top of the unit and is at least partially supported by the front member and the rear member of the frame structure.

6. A unit according to claim 5, wherein the span of webbing is woven through at least a portion of the front enclosure material so that a portion of the span is outside the outer surface of the front enclosure material and another portion of the span is inside the outer surface of the front enclosure material.

7. The unit of claim 6, wherein the enclosure material comprises at least two layers, and the span of webbing is woven through a first of the layers and not woven through a second of the layers.

8. The unit of claim 3, wherein the span wraps around an outer surface of the front member of the base frame.

9. The unit of claim 1 , wherein the frame structure further comprises: A first intermediate member and a second intermediate member each having a first end coupled to the front member and a second end coupled to the rear member, the first intermediate member and the second intermediate member being external to an outer surface of the enclosure material, and wherein the first span of the webbing extends along the first intermediate member across the outer surface of the enclosure material, and the second span of the webbing extends along the second intermediate member across the outer surface of the enclosure material.

10. The unit of claim 9, wherein the first and second intermediate members of the frame structure each include a loop structure through which the span of webbing extends.

11. The unit of claim 10 , wherein the first and second intermediate members of the frame structure each comprise a front intermediate member and a rear intermediate member that are detachable via a sliding actuator, the sliding actuator being translatable between a first position in which the sliding actuator slides over the front intermediate member and is detached from the rear intermediate member, and a second position in which the sliding actuator slides over the rear intermediate member and attaches the front intermediate member and the rear intermediate member, and wherein, As the sliding actuator translates, the loop structure of the sliding actuator slides over the span of webbing.

12. The unit of claim 1, further comprising: a tie-down structure comprising at least two spans, each of the spans of the tie-down structure comprising a first end coupled to the rear member, the second ends of the spans being joined together at a joint, the tie-down structure further comprising a unitary span extending from the first end at the joint to a second end at which a tie-down latch is adjustably positioned. Wherein the tie latch is configured to attach to the rigid connector on or near the seat of the vehicle.

13. The unit of claim 12, wherein the first end of the span of the tie-down structure is adjacent to the second end of the span of webbing.

14. The unit of claim 12, wherein the first end of the span of the tie-down structure is sewn around the rear member.

15. The unit of claim 9, wherein the first end of the span of webbing is coupled to a rigid bracket at the rear portion of the base.

16. The unit of claim 15, wherein the span extends from the first end within the interior of the base structure, wraps around a front portion of the base structure, and continues outside the outer surface of the front portion of the enclosure material covering the front of the unit.

17. The unit of claim 1 , wherein the rigid connector on or near the seat of the vehicle is a first rigid connector, the unit further comprising: A latch is coupled to the frame structure, the latch being configured to couple the frame structure to a second rigid connector on or near the seat of the vehicle.

18. The unit of claim 17, wherein the second rigid connector is spaced apart from the first rigid connector.

19. The unit of claim 1, wherein the second ends of the first span and the second span of webbing are configured to couple directly to the rigid connector on or near the seat of the vehicle.

20. A unit for securing an animal on a seat in a vehicle, comprising: a base structure comprising a base comprising a front portion and a rear portion; as well as A frame structure that transitions between an expanded state and a telescoping state, the frame structure comprising: a front member comprising a first end and a second end, the first and second ends of the front member being rotatably coupled to the front portion of the base, the front member being shaped to partially define a front of the unit and partially define a top of the unit when the frame structure is in the deployed state, a rear member including a first end and a second end, the first and second ends of the rear member being rotatably coupled to the rear portion of the base, the rear member being shaped to partially define a rear portion of the unit and partially define the top portion of the unit when the frame structure is in the deployed state, at least one intermediate component comprising a first end rotatably coupled to the front component or the rear component via a rotational joint, and a second end attached to a corresponding portion of the frame structure when the frame structure is in the deployed state, such that a connection is formed between the front component and the rear component via the at least one intermediate component, and when the frame structure is to be transformed into the telescoping state, the front component and the rear component are rotated to a telescoping position in which the at least one intermediate component is within or substantially flush with the front component or the rear component.

21. The unit of claim 20, wherein the second end of the at least one intermediate member is detached from the corresponding portion of the frame structure when the frame structure is to be transitioned to the telescoping state.

22. A unit according to claim 20, wherein the at least one intermediate component includes two intermediate components, each of which includes a front intermediate component and a rear intermediate component that can be removed via a sliding actuator, and the sliding actuator can be translated between a first position and a second position, in which the sliding actuator slides over the front intermediate component and is removed from the rear intermediate component, and in the second position, the sliding actuator slides over the rear intermediate component and attaches the front intermediate component to the rear intermediate component.

23. The unit of claim 22, wherein the slide actuator includes a first opening and a second opening for receiving a button extending away from an exterior of the front intermediate member, wherein In the first position, the button is received in the first opening, and in the second position, the button is received in the second opening.

24. The unit of claim 20, further comprising: a first front rotary actuator rotatably coupled to the front portion of the base on a first side; a second front rotary actuator rotatably coupled to the front portion of the base on a second side; a first rear rotary actuator rotatably coupled to the rear portion of the base on the first side; as well as A second rear rotary actuator is rotatably coupled to the rear portion of the base on the second side.

25. The unit of claim 24, wherein: After the at least one intermediate member is brought into the telescoping position, the first and second front rotary actuators are rotated to a stowed position in which the front member is within or flush with the base structure or the rear member, and the first and second rear rotary actuators are rotated to cause the rear member to be within or flush with the base structure or the front member.

26. A unit according to claim 24, wherein the first rear rotary actuator and the second rear rotary actuator are positioned higher than the first front rotary actuator and the second front rotary actuator relative to the base so that when the frame structure is in the telescoping state, the rear component is flush on top of the front component.

27. A unit according to claim 24, wherein the first front rotary actuator and the second front rotary actuator are lockable in a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position, the front part of the frame structure extends perpendicular to the base, and in the second position, the front part extends parallel to the base, and wherein the first rear rotary actuator and the second rear rotary actuator are lockable in a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position, the rear part of the frame structure extends perpendicular to the base, and in the second position, the rear part extends parallel to the base.

28. The unit of claim 20, wherein the at least one intermediate component is detachable from the front component or the rear component while remaining attached to the other of the front component or the rear component such that the at least one intermediate component can rotate with the rotational joint.

29. The unit of claim 28, wherein the at least one intermediate component is detachable from the front component or the rear component via a release actuator mounted to the at least one intermediate component.

30. The unit of claim 29, wherein the release actuator withdraws at least one pin extending away from the at least one intermediate member from a corresponding notch in the front member or the rear member.

31. A unit for securing an animal on a seat in a vehicle, comprising: a base structure comprising a base and a base frame comprising a front member and a rear member mounted to the base; as well as A latch bracket is movably coupled to the base frame, the latch bracket containing a latch configured to rigidly couple the unit to an anchor point within the vehicle.

32. A unit according to claim 31, wherein the latch bracket is slidably connected to the front part of the base frame via a front guide, the front guide extends from the front part of the latch bracket connected to the front part of the base frame, and the latch bracket is slidably connected to the rear part of the base frame via a rear guide, the rear guide extends from the rear part of the latch bracket connected to the rear part of the base frame.

33. The unit of claim 31 , wherein the latch bracket is translatable relative to the base in a direction parallel to the front member and the rear member.

34. The unit of claim 31 , wherein the base comprises a front portion and a rear portion, the front component being disposed at the front portion and the rear component being disposed at the rear portion, the unit further comprising: a first side actuator coupled to the base structure and accessible from an exterior of the unit to lock the latch bracket in a first position such that the latch extends out of the rear portion of the base on a first side; as well as a second side actuator coupled to the base structure and accessible from the exterior of the unit to lock the latch bracket in a second position such that the latch extends out of the rear portion of the base on a second side, The latch bracket can be released from the first side actuator or the second side actuator by pulling the first side actuator or the second side actuator relative to the base structure.

35. The unit of claim 34, wherein the first side actuator and the second side actuator include features for receiving corresponding shaped features of the latch bracket to lock the latch bracket.

36. The unit of claim 31 , wherein the latch is transitionable to an extended position extending out of the rear portion of the base frame or a retracted position retracted into the rear portion of the base frame.

37. The unit of claim 36, wherein the latch is telescopic.

38. A unit for securing an animal on a seat in a vehicle, comprising: a base structure comprising a base including a rear cutout portion; as well as a latch system mounted in the rear cutout portion of the base and accessible from the bottom of the unit, the latch system comprising a bar extending across the rear cutout portion and secured to the base, the latch system further comprising a plurality of latches slidably and rotatably coupled to the bar for rigidly coupling the unit to an anchor point within the vehicle, wherein the latches are coupled to each other such that a desired distance between the latches is maintained, the latch system further comprising a bracket around the bar to prevent the latches from sliding when the latches are adjacent to the bracket, wherein the latch is positionable along the bar in a first position on a first side of the unit or in a second position along the bar on a second side of the unit.

39. The unit of claim 38, wherein the latch is transitionable from a retracted position in which the latch is withdrawn into the base to an extended position in which the latch pivots about the bar and extends from the base.

40. The unit of claim 39, further comprising: a latch release actuator connected to a protrusion and configured to translate the protrusion, wherein at least one latch includes a slot for receiving the protrusion, the latch release actuator being configured such that when the latch release actuator is actuated, the protrusion translates, causing the latch to be released from an anchor point to which the latch is attached.

41. The unit of claim 39, wherein: The bracket prevents the latch from sliding along the bar when the latch is in the extended position, and the bracket does not prevent the latch from sliding along the bar when the latch is in the retracted position.

42. The unit of claim 39, wherein the latch is lockable in the retracted position in the base.

43. The unit of claim 42, further comprising: A latch unlocking actuator in the base structure is connected to the protrusion and is configured to translate the protrusion, wherein a first of the latches includes a slot for receiving the protrusion, and the latch unlocking actuator is configured so that when the latch unlocking actuator is actuated, the protrusion translates so that the first latch is released from the retracted position and freely transitions to the extended position.

44. The unit of claim 39 wherein the latch is lockable in the extended position in the base.

45. The unit of claim 44, further comprising: a latch unlocking actuator in the base structure connected to the pin and configured to translate the pin, wherein A first of the latches includes a hole for receiving the pin, and the latch unlock actuator is configured such that when the latch unlock actuator is actuated, a protrusion translates such that the first latch is released from the extended position and freely transitions to the retracted position.

46. A unit for securing an animal on a seat in a vehicle, comprising: a base structure comprising a base and a base frame, the base comprising a front portion and a rear portion, and the base frame comprising a front member mounted to the front portion of the base and a rear member mounted to the rear portion of the base; a latch system coupled to the front and rear members of the base frame, the latch system including a plurality of latches configured to releasably couple the unit to anchor points within the vehicle, the latches mounted to respective intermediate members slidably coupled to respective side members of the latch system such that the latches are transitionable between an extended position in which the latches extend out of the rear portion and a retracted position in which the latches are withdrawn into the rear portion; as well as an actuator coupled to the latch system and accessible from the exterior of the unit for locking the middle member relative to the side members so that the latch is locked in the extended position or the retracted position, the actuator being operable to unlock the middle member relative to the side members so that the latch can transition between the extended position and the retracted position.

47. A unit according to claim 46, wherein the actuator is mounted to a front member via the front portion of the base.

48. A unit according to claim 47, wherein the latch system is capable of translating within the base in a direction parallel to the front component of the base frame, wherein a slot is formed in the front portion of the base so that the actuator can translate along with the latch system.

49. A unit for securing an animal on a seat in a vehicle, comprising: a base structure comprising a base, the base comprising a rear portion; as well as a latch system mounted in the rear portion of the base, the latch system comprising a bar secured to the base, the latch system further comprising latches rotatably coupled to the bar for rigidly coupling the unit to an anchor point within the vehicle, wherein the latches are coupled to each other such that a distance between the latches is maintained, The latch can be moved from an extended position outside the base to a retracted position inside the base by rotating the latch about the rod.

50. The unit of claim 49, wherein the latch system further comprises a bracket around the bar to prevent the latch from sliding when the latch is adjacent the bracket.

51. The unit of claim 49, wherein the latch is lockable in the retracted position in the base via a lock accessible on a bottom of the base.

52. A unit for securing an animal on a seat in a vehicle, comprising: a base comprising an anterior portion and an opposing posterior portion; as well as a latching system coupled to the base, the latching system comprising: a plurality of latches configured to releasably couple the unit to anchor points within the vehicle, the latches being movable to the base such that the latches are transitionable between an extended position in which the latches extend out of the rear portion and a retracted position in which the latches are withdrawn into the rear portion; as well as An actuator is coupled to the base and accessible from an exterior of the unit, the actuator being configured to release the latch from the anchor point within the vehicle.

53. The unit of claim 52, wherein the actuator is configured to release each of the plurality of latches simultaneously.

54. A unit according to claim 52, wherein the latch system includes a latch bracket, the plurality of latches are connected to the latch bracket, wherein the latch bracket is capable of translating within the base in a direction parallel to the front portion and the rear portion of the base from a first position on a first side of the unit to a second position on a second side of the unit, and wherein the actuator is configured to release the latch when the latch bracket is in either of the first position and the second position.

55. According to any one of the preceding claims, the unit comprises a body panel defining an inflated shape of the exterior of the unit.

56. According to any of the preceding claims, wherein the latch system includes an auxiliary latch release mechanism, the auxiliary latch release mechanism comprising an actuator including an attachment / release indicator on the rigid latch, and an indicator window on the rigid latch.

57. According to any one of the preceding claims, the unit comprises a lead-in for securing the latch in a connected position to connect the unit to a support structure of the vehicle.

58. Any of the preceding claims, wherein the introducer includes an angled surface such that as the latch is rotated to the connected position, contact between the latch and the angled surface causes the introducer to translate toward the unlocked position.

59. Any of the preceding claims, wherein when the latch is in the connected position, the introducer translates toward a locked position.

60. Any of the preceding claims, wherein the introducer is biased towards the locked position.

61. According to any of the preceding claims, the unit comprises a position release actuator for transitioning the introducer from the locked position to the unlocked position to rotate the latch away from the connected position.

62. Any one of the preceding claims wherein the rigid latch is angled relative to the base to level the unit on a seat of a vehicle.

63. According to any of the preceding claims, the frame structure of the unit includes an X-shaped rod, and the X-shaped rod has a release actuator attached to the front part or the rear part, and the release actuator includes a pin that can be slidably received in a corresponding hole on the end of the part of the X-shaped rod to lock the X-shaped rod relative to the front part or the rear part.

64. According to any of the preceding claims, the unit comprises a fold lock for attaching the substrate to the enclosure material when the unit is in the telescoping state.

65. Any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fold lock comprises a protrusion that connects with a corresponding notch or recess on the base.

66. Any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fold lock comprises a notch that connects to a corresponding protrusion on the base.

67. According to any of the preceding claims, wherein the unit comprises a handle.

68. Any of the preceding claims, wherein the handle extends through first and second openings defined by the base and into the interior of the base.

69. Any one of the preceding claims, wherein an end of the handle within the base connects with a corresponding boss on the interior of the base to secure the handle to the base.

70. According to any of the preceding claims, the unit comprises feet on the base to enable the unit to stand upright.

71. According to any of the preceding claims, the enclosure material can be removed from the unit by disconnecting the top portion from the bottom portion of the base, disconnecting the enclosure material from the top portion and the frame structure, and sliding the enclosure material away from the frame structure.

72. Any of the preceding claims, wherein the unit comprises a tie-down disconnect comprising a first connector and a second connector connected to an end of a first tie portion slidably connected to a second tie portion.

73. According to any one of claims 72, the slidable connection between the first tie part and the second tie part allows the first tie part to move to a certain position relative to the second tie part to maintain a taut connection between the first tie part and the tie.

74. A method according to any one of claim 72 or claim 73 wherein the tie down disconnect is capable of being retained in the vehicle when the unit is removed from the vehicle.

75. Any one of the preceding claims, wherein the unit includes a tie-down guide connected to the frame structure for receiving the tie-down to align the tie-down on the unit.

76. Any of the preceding claims, wherein the unit comprises stepped features on the base to trim the enclosure material to form the first and second sides of the unit.

77. A unit for securing an animal on a seat in a vehicle, comprising: base structure; a frame structure coupled to the base; an enclosure material extending at least partially around the frame structure, the base structure, the frame structure, and the enclosure material cooperating to define an enclosed area of the unit; an opening formed in the enclosure material to provide access to the enclosed area; as well as An impact absorbing pad is removably mountable to the unit adjacent the opening.

78. The unit of claim 77, wherein the impact absorbing pad is removably attachable to a door, the impact absorbing pad being movable with the door relative to the opening.

79. The unit of claim 78, wherein the door is integrally formed with the enclosure material.

80. The unit of claim 77, wherein the impact absorbing pad is removably attached to the enclosure material proximate the opening.

81. The unit of claim 77, further comprising a door movable relative to the enclosure to selectively seal the opening.

82. The unit of claim 81 wherein the door is movable relative to the impact absorbing pad.

83. The unit of claim 77, wherein the impact absorbing pad is formed from a foam material.

84. The unit of claim 77, wherein the impact absorbing pad is removably mountable to the unit hook and loop fastener.

85. The unit of claim 77, wherein the impact absorbing pad is removably mountable to the unit via magnets.

86. The unit of claim 77, wherein the impact absorbing pad is removably attachable to the unit via a buckle.

87. A unit for securing an animal on a seat in a vehicle, comprising: base structure; a frame structure coupled to the base; an enclosure material extending at least partially around the frame structure, the base structure, the frame structure, and the enclosure material cooperating to define an enclosed area of the unit; an opening formed in the enclosure material to provide access to the enclosed area; as well as A safety net is removably mountable to the unit in an arrangement overlapping the opening.

88. The unit of claim 87, wherein the safety net further comprises lengths of webbing arranged to block the opening.

89. The unit of claim 87, wherein the safety net is removably connectable to the unit via at least one quick disconnect mechanism.

90. The unit of claim 89, wherein the at least one quick connect mechanism comprises a connector attached to the unit and a fastener disposed at an end of the safety net.

91. The unit of claim 90 wherein the connector is rigidly attached to the frame structure.

92. The unit of claim 90 wherein the connector is rigidly attached to the base structure.

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